Reference no: EM134010770
Problem
One topic that our students learn at UOPX is the importance of teamwork and critical thinking. However, many of our students dislike learning teams, and I understand why. Throughout my years of teaching, I've heard countless complaints about learning teams-issues like someone not pulling their weight, individuals being overachievers, being mean, or being bossy. The reality is that we place students in these situations not just to learn the content but also to learn how to collaborate with team members who have diverse ways of thinking (Senge, 2010). Additionally, experiencing the ups and downs that come from having weak links on a team is also a valuable learning experience.
Having spent many years in the military, I know that being a team player can be a matter of life and death, and depending on one another is critical to accomplishing our mission. Petty disagreements cannot interfere with our work. In the military, we all contributed, and some individuals had to step into leadership roles to motivate others. Thus, the complaints I've heard about teamwork seem foreign to me, as I personally had a similar experience with a teammate during my time at university.
My teammate and I supported another team member who always seemed to have a lot happening in her life. We stepped in to fill the gaps during the entire time I was working on my Bachelor's in Human Services. Back then, we had numerous team assignments, and I often joke, "I had to walk 50 miles to school, both ways." I understand that not everyone is patient or tolerant-some may struggle to see the value of collective effort in a team. While I never excuse incomplete work, I do believe we can motivate and lead our peers. This is what I have always expected from my students. Get the instant assignment help.
Tell me about a difficult team experience. What did you do, what did you learn, and what would you do differently? If this sounds like an interview question, it is, and it is one you will get as you climb your career ladder.