Group Work - Allowing Ideas to Collide

As adults, we can occasionally scoff at the idea of working collaboratively. Mostly likely, this could be because of previous experience where group work proved fruitless or frustrating. Research has shown, however, that working (and especially learning) in groups helps understanding and retention for students.
Recently, I read an article from Tools for Teaching by Barbara Gross Davis, which highlighted the tools that can be used to facilitate postivie group experiences. As I look forward to my future as a teacher, I can see how important these skills are and resolve to use the ideas for classroom.
For instance, I believe guidelines should be placed at the very beginning. Basic rules that are set forth in the beginning can save headaches later on. In some cases, a simple written contract may assist students in learning how to work together fairly. There are also small ways, such as informal learning groups that are formed during the class period for the purposes of talking about the subject. This type of group are very short-term, but can provide a place where ideas can be shared and new thoughts can come forward.
Best-selling author Steven Johnson wrote the book Where Good Ideas are Formed and he spoke of the need for ideas to collide. Allowing the time and space for students to share and receive ideas and to build brand new ideas from the original. This is a vital way for students to achieve their potential when it comes to learning.