Page 325 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

“YOU can,” Jennifer says, wrinkling her nose. Technology
Specialist
“C’mon,”Sandra says,“We have a presentation
to give.” Fred’s extensive knowledge of
technology and how to use it
Everyone turns in unison to look at Jennifer. makes him perfect for this role.

“It’s not TOTALLY my responsibility,” she Recorder
exclaims. “Where am I supposed to find out all
this information on teams and teamwork? Where
do I even begin?!”

“It’s called Google. It’s called Wikipedia,”Fred Ken’s ability to follow the flow
says. of the team’s work and capture
critical information makes him
“I think you just volunteered for the an ideal Recorder.
Technology Specialist role, Fred,” Sandra says
wryly.

Fred starts to sit a little taller in his seat. “I can find lots of stuff, there’s all sorts of academic journals
like on JSTOR.”

“J what?” Jennifer says.

“That’s why he’s the tech guy,” says Ken, who sees there’s one important role missing. He takes out
his pen and starts writing: “Description of team roles”and “Accountability”on the top of his notebook
page. Looks like I’m the Recorder, he thinks.

Create and Implement the Plan

Once team roles are defined and decided upon, it’s important for the team to develop a plan for achieving
the team’s goals and objectives. The process of creating the plan need not be democratic. However, it
is important that all members accept responsibility for their role in first forming and then performing to
the plan. Successful completion of the plan depends on “buy-in” or acceptance by all team members.
Implement the plan with team members performing according to their roles. The team Captain is
responsible for the overall performance of the team.

Assess Performance

Regularly assess each member’s performance according to the criteria set for each role. Also assess the
team’s progress as it performs the plan, and works toward meeting goals and objectives. By assessing
during the early stages of the plan (as well as on a regular basis), you can determine what is working and
what needs to be changed.

Modify the Plan

Update the plan of action based on the assessment or as dictated by the situation and/or the team’s
performance. Changes and modifications can be made for both short-term and long-term. In addition to
modifying the plan, options for change include shifting roles within the team, adding new team members,
obtaining additional resources, and changing the goals and objectives.

Let’s see how our team did at assessing their performance so far.

Chapter 12 — Communication and Teamwork 319