Page 18 - Jostens Yearbook_Adviser Guide

CRITIQUES

CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Giving a critique is challenging. Even with the best intentions, it can come across as more
A strong team foundation not only boosts morale, it helps prevent conflict. And negative than intended. And whether it’s the adviser or a fellow student who needs to check
though it may seem like there’s no time to spare, taking a moment to build a in with a teammate regarding the quality or completion of his or her work, navigating tough
conversations starts with being prepared.
strong team dynamic and celebrate accomplishments is time well spent. It sets
the tone that yearbook is a community with norms like open communication and 1. Before the conversation, be sure to have a goal. Know what you want to accomplish and have
an idea of where you want the conversation to go.
accountability, not judgment and blame. It also builds rise. 2. Prepare for the conversation by gathering information. Don’t compile a dossier of offenses,

That said, even in the best environments conflicts arise. And unless the adviser but rather note some casual observations or comments from classmates.
wants to play mediator on top of everything else, it is wise to set up a conflict 3. Be direct. When headed into tough territory, it can be advisable to cut to the chase.
4. Stay focused. Even if dealing with a student who has multiple issues, try to pick just one area
resolution strategy for students to follow to diffuse tough situations.
for improvement.
5. Limit comments to address actions and behaviors, not possible motivations. Using words like
STEP 1: SHARE—LISTEN—CHECK.
“I observe” instead of “You do this…” can help.
This step is ideal for student journalists who are well-trained to ask questions and listen to responses. When 6. Check the message. It’s okay to recap with phrases like, “Here’s what I said,” or “Here’s what
an issue arises, each student should share their side, quietly listening to the other person, then after they have I heard you say.” You might also ask the student what they heard from you, to make sure your
finished, they should ask clarifying questions to better understand what went wrong.
message came across clearly.
STEP 2: BE ACCOUNTABLE. 7. Wrap it up. Don’t belabor the issue and draw it out. If everyone has said their piece, end the
conversation so that everyone can move on.
Students should acknowledge their role in the misunderstanding, accepting responsibility for his or her actions.
Owning up to one’s missteps is critical in making amends. 8. Make the plan. Recap next steps with the student and offer assistance. A closing question can
be, “Is there anything you need more or less of from me to help you with this?”
STEP 3: COME UP WITH A REASONABLE SOLUTION.

Together students should brainstorm solutions to the problem. Each student needs to participate, sharing at least
two possible outcomes each. After ideas have been shared, the students will need to agree on a course of action,
because ultimately the goal of conflict resolution is to move on.

NOTE: It’s not a bad idea to set up behavior expectations in the

policies and procedures handouts that go home on the first
day. Having norms clearly stated and initiated by students and

teachers can prevent a lot of unwanted issues.

18 SECTION 1.2 EXPECTATIONS