Strategies for Online Teaming
- Take you team
responsibilities and reports seriously: Teams are structured so
that every member carries a certain amount of responsibility by having
and rotating specific jobs. Whatever your role, take it seriously and
do it to best of your ability. Be a strong link. Modeling effective
team behavior is the first step toward having a high performing team.
- Identify a common
goal for the team: It's a good idea to share your "map" with your
team. It can allow you to see where your goals converge. Determining
a team goal is a great way to ensure that your team stays fixed on a
common target.
- Set working
protocols: Discuss when and how you will work within your team.
Many teams find it helpful to meet in a chat room at the beginning of
each week to discuss completion of team assignments.
- Support each
other: A valuable role of the team is to act as a safety net so
that all members can feel supported enough to take the risks necessary
for true professional development. Be encouraging of one another, communicate
positively, and actively pursue equal opportunities for success.
- Be honest when
assessing your team: It does not behoove you, or your team to be
anything less than honest when evaluating your group performance. The
assessments are there to give you time to reflect on the dynamics in
your team so you can adjust them if necessary. The goal is not keeping
up an effective appearance, but truly being a high performing team.
- Resolve all conflicts quickly: Time spent in negative cycles is time away from your coursework. If it is difficult for your team to solve a conflict, of if you just feel you need some extra support, your facilitator will be glad to help you get back on a positive track.