Group members barely doing any work but studying a lot for exams

Question

As a university student, how should I deal with students in our group who barely do any work, albeit they study a lot to get good grades in their exams?

We've talked to them, but they are convinced they are actually doing stuff (but most times, when we do face-to-face work, all they do is to sit there awaiting for the project to be completed).
When we're not doing face-to-face work, they simply slack.

Should I let the professor know? Quit the group by my own whilst handling my own version of the project? Or what should I do?

Answer 1

There are basically 3 options I can personally see:

1. Do nothing

Normally with this kind of assessment there is some scaling of marks based on effort/share of the work. If the professor has indicated that, I would personally do nothing.

2. Talk to the professor

If you are still concerned about the group effort, talk to your professor about it. It's likely this activity is designed to help you navigate group dynamics and your professor will likely be all too happy to help you learn.

3. Talk privately/one to one with the 'offending' party

If you feel that neither 1 or 2 is appropriate, try talking to them directly. Try not to confront them. Instead, look for reasons they may not be contributing as much. Perhaps they feel unable to contribute. Listen to them. If they feel they are already contributing​ enough or that everything is 'done', maybe suggest additional things they can do. The main thing to remember is to try and persuade and listen rather than accuse.