Group-project marking scenarios

The group-project mark combines two scores using a geometric mean:

\[\text{Final mark} = \sqrt{M \times E}\]

where \(M \in [0, 100]\) is your individual measurable contribution score (engagement: being present and contributing to the meeting, as evidenced by the minutes) and \(E \in [0, 100]\) is the shared effective contribution score (the group's mark). The full definitions are on the Assessment page; the three scenarios below show how the formula behaves for three typical kinds of group.

Example 1: the free rider

A group of four produces a strong project (\(E = 74\)). Student D was recorded as engaged in one of five meetings (\(M = 20\)).

Student \(M\) Final mark
A 100 86.02%
B 80 76.94%
C 80 76.94%
D 20 38.47%

Student D cannot pass on the strength of their group's work alone.

Example 2: the conscientious student in a struggling group

Student A was recorded as engaged at all five meetings (\(M = 100\)). The group's output is weak (\(E = 42\)).

Student \(M\) Final mark
A 100 64.81%
B 60 50.20%
C 60 50.20%
D 40 40.99%

Example 3: a well-functioning group

All four students attend consistently. The project is solid (\(E = 68\)).

Student \(M\) Final mark
A 100 82.46%
B 80 73.76%
C 80 73.76%
D 60 63.85%