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  Case: Cannot Cooperate
Aisha is known as a responsible and smart student. I have known her for the last two years, but this year is the first time she is taking one of my classes. She is in my 10th grade US History class. Recently, I started using small group projects in my class. I simply want my students to learn to cooperate, exchange ideas, and produce the project together. Although Aisha is willing to take part in these small group projects, she does not want to be in groups with male students because of her religious beliefs. When she told me about this, I told her that she was in the United States and that she had to work with whoever she is in a group with. In the first group project, Aisha was in a group with three males and one female students. She simply did not participate in any of the group activities. I wonder if should reconsider my original position on this issue and accommodate Aisha by having her work only with girls. Would I be doing her a disservice? What should I do?
Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!)
I would be respectful of Aisha's religion and allow her to work in all female groups. However, I would have her provide me with a more detailed explanation based on her religion as to why she cannot work in groups with males. I would also encourage her to explain to me the cultural impact this would have on her and her family if she were to work in a group with males. Sometimes certain actions or social involvements can have detrimental consequences on an individual and their family. I would also personally do my own research of Aisha's religion to gain a better knowledge which may be beneficial to Aisha in future requirements of her in the classroom. In the end I want Aisha to meet and or exceed the standards taught in my U.S. History class. If I am placing her in groups where she is unproductive, I am doing Aisha and myself an injustice.