Hi Carol,
I create study teams (2 to 6 members depending on class size) in my classes. The teams are a mix of students, meaning different background, ages, etc. I have found that with a common problem facing them, they work well together to reach the solution. In the process of working on the problem they start to develop rapport and respect with and for each other. Not always successful in every case but is successful the majority of the time.
Gary
