Page 270 - Keys to College Success

Teamwork Basics

Every team needs collaboration and process to get things done. Collaboration—
working together toward a common goal—demands honesty, openness, consistency,
and respect.
1. Honesty means that team members tell one another the truth, not just what each
wants to hear. They disclose problems so that other members can join in the problem-
solving process.
2. Openness means that team members do not fear repercussions for communicating
their thoughts. They share information and are confident that others won’t make
fun of their ideas.
3. Consistency means that each team member works, and interacts, in a consistent man-
ner. This allows members of the team to know what to expect from one another.
4. Respect means that team members speak and behave respectfully toward one
another. They listen to everyone’s ideas without judgment, and offer constructive
criticism.

Following a process helps things get done step by step and assures that nothing
will be missed (that is, if everyone does his or her job). The process below has five
stages.
1. Before anything else, identify the desired goal so the team starts working with the
end in mind.
2. Once team members know the goal, define roles and expectations. Who is going
to do what and how does it need to be done? As part of this stage, identify a
leader who will define a plan and delegate tasks.
3. Then it’s time for planning and scheduling. Certain tasks may depend on others,
so the team leader needs to set a realistic schedule and communicate it clearly to
everyone.
4. Throughout the process, the team must monitor its performance to see if dead-
lines are being met and teammates are performing their tasks to the best of their
abilities.
5. Finally, the team needs to evaluate its performance. What went well? What didn’t?
What might team members change next time, either with this same team or another?

Project Teams
Although every team project has elements unique to the course and the assignment,
team projects usually follow a standard course of action.

Instructor assigns the project. Group presentations may be described in the class
syllabus and can be a significant portion of your grade. Your instructor will spell out
what is expected.
Instructor may create groups or allow students to create their own. Most of
the time, instructors assign groups. If you can choose your own team, look for consci-
entious classmates.

Have your first team meeting. Discuss the project and outline the parts, making
sure that everyone understands the goal and responsibilities. At this meeting, define:
■ A comprehensive vision of the goal People, Resources, and Opportunities
■ A clear definition of each member’s roles and responsibilities
■ A schedule of interim and final deadlines linked to future meetings
■ Contact information for all team members

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