Page 222 - Learning to Learn

READING EXPERIENCE 8: PERFORMING IN TEAMS AND WITHIN A C OMMUNITY
222 L EARNING TO LEARN: BECOMING A SELF-GROWER
Define the Mission
The mission of the team influences what resources are required and necessary to meet the team’s goals
and objectives. Our team’s mission has already been defined by Professor Arbuckle, so they don’t
need to spend time figuring out what they’re supposed to do, but can move directly to figuring out how
they’ll accomplish their mission.
Build the Team
It is important that team building occurs only after
the mission is understood and agreed upon and
resources are carefully considered. An important
component of team building is the creation of
shared ownership of goals and objectives. Team
members must believe that the team’s goals are
worthwhile and obtainable.
The creation of team roles with job descriptions
enhances accountability, performance, and unity
while helping to facilitate team goals. Depending
on the purpose and length of the team’s mission,
roles should be periodically rotated among team
members so that everyone can gain experience
and improve skills in different areas.
Let’s see how our team is doing. So far, they’ve
decided that Sam makes the strongest Captain,
and that while Jennifer is a natural choice for
Spokesperson, Sandra has volunteered to be the
Reflector.
The team is now ready to discuss who should be
the Recorder.
“No worries,” Fred says.
“Wait,” Sandra interrupts, “Look at the
assignment sheet. Professor Arbuckle wants
us to list the occasions and activities where
teamwork is helpful —in other words, what
is our team going to actually do?”
“You mean other than just talking about
what we’re going to do? We seem to be
good at that., Fred notes, smiling.
Jennifer sighs loudly.
“C’mon,” Sandra says, “We have a presentation to give.”
Everyone turns to look at Jennifer.
“Just because I’m a journalismmajor doesn’t mean it’s TOTALLY my responsibility,” she exclaims.
“I can help a lot but where am I supposed to look for information on teams and teamwork?”
Ken’s ability to follow the flow
of the team’s work and capture
critical information makes him
an ideal Recorder.
Recorder
Fred’s extensive knowledge of
technology and how to use it
makes him perfect for this role.
Technology Specialist
Jennifer’s background & ability
to communicate with the team
and to the larger class makes
her an effective Spokesperson.
Spokesperson
With her earlier suggestion that
the team be careful in assigning
roles, Sandra has volunteered to
be the Reflector.
Reflector
With his excellent leadership
skills, Sam makes a strong
Captain.
Captain