In my work experience, I have been a part of many teams. The teams consisted of individuals from different backgrounds and expertise. Whether in the workforce or the online classroom we encounter different cultures and experiences. This diversity within a team can be challenging.
But when you are working to accomplish a common goal it can be rewarding when the team is carefully put together. Communicating and collaborating effectively within the team lead to successful completion of tasks. Everyone does not have the same values. Everyone does not have the same sense of urgency. Everyone does not realize the results are reflective of the entire team. Whatever the case may be there must some understanding of different learning styles and personalities.
The key to accomplishing goals as a team is to develop strategies to utilize each member’s strength in their learning styles and personalities. Learning Styles and Strategies for Communication and Collaboration The learning styles may include intrapersonal, visual-spatial, verbal-linguistic, or bodily-kinesthetic. The intrapersonal learner has the ability to understand one’s own behavior and feelings. This is typically displayed in communications. This individual is expressive, content in working alone, and may be counted on to complete a task that requires attention to detail.
The visual spatial learner has the ability to perceive and create images. This individual is more likely to resort to images to assist with their understanding. Their contribution to the team may include maps, charts, or graphs. The verbal-linguistic learner has the ability to communicate through language. Writing tasks should be handled by this team member. This individual is usually best in a leader position because he or she is a good teacher, motivator, and delegates. The bodily-kinesthetic is a ‘hands-on’ individual. This person learns through action.
This individual may not connect quickly on a personal basis or with written communication. There must be some physical activity. Different Personalities and Strategies for Communication and Collaboration The different personalities you will encounter on a team are the organizers, the thinker, the giver and the adventurer. The organizer will be called upon to maintain structure within the team. In most cases this person’s role would be a leader. The thinker’s strong points are analyzing data, solving problems and developing models.
The giver is characterized by the desire to help others and openness when working with others. This individual would ensure all team members are comfortable with an assignment/task and offer assistance. The adventurer is flexible, spontaneous, courageous, and often has ability in a variety of fields. This role (personality) is a must for any team. This individual is more inclined to contribute ideas and take more risks.
Conclusion
We all have different learning styles and personalities. It is imperative that we understand our strengths and work to develop the areas where we are weak using whatever techniques that may aid in our learning. It takes effort from the entire team to recognize these strengths and contribute wholeheartedly to the team by cooperating and expressing our ideas in a clear concise matter whatever our style may be. References This is a hanging indent. To keep the hanging indent format, simply delete this line of text using the backspace key, and replace the information with your reference entry.
