Interpersonal
To interact effectively with others as peers, subordinates, and leaders to accomplish goals.
Artifact
Project Description
Our assignment in Bernie Dodge’s 670 class was to design an educational game that was to be presented to the learner electronically. I worked on this project ‘CleanWorld’ with fellow classmates Kim Imrie and Greg Johnson. While we were not responsible for the creation of a working game, we were directed to design the game within accepted industry practice.
Outcomes
Because of this experience in EDTEC 670, I was able to interact effectively with others as peers, subordinates and leaders to accomplish goals. This was the second project our group had taken on as Cometters. Our initial meetings revolved around looking at the requirements for the E-game and brainstorming what makes a game fun. After coming to an understanding of what direction our game should take, we took turns shooting ideas. I was in charge of keeping all the idea notes up to date, and writing down the ‘minutes’ of what was discussed. We kept all our documents, records, and graphics on a server providing access to all at any given time. When we needed to, we communicated using Skype (conferencing). Through the cooperative effort of the group, we were able to assign responsibilities, get our individual work done and collaborate on new ideas effectively and efficiently.
Challenges & Opportunities
Working together as a group toward a common goal can be tough. Working together as a group of teachers is even tougher. All three people in our group as future Instructional Designers come from a classroom background. Part of that background is the perception of always being in charge (in the classroom). Another issue is that as teachers, when we speak, we believe everyone should get quiet and listen. The third issue (the elephant in the corner) is that Kim Imrie is the Director of Educational Technology for our district, and Greg and I work under her supervision. These life roles led to some tentative early discussions with lots of interrupting and officious behavior. We have been working together for a long time, but the roles were different here. After setting up some meeting rules and relearning the art of discussion, we were able to see the value of what each of us brought to the project. As the project progressed, we added more time to meet together and complete the details of the project.
Looking back on the project, each member of group brought unique ideas and specialized skills that made for a great game and a wonderful experience.
Lessons Learned
In a role as an Instructional Designer, I need to be able to work effectively with all kinds of people. I needed to learn to relax and not try to control every detail and responsibility. I believe the word is trust. I have learned to let go of my grip on every task, every detail, and trust others to do what they are good at and allow others to lead. I learned that when someone questions one of my ideas, it is not a personal attack on me. It might be a search for some greater understanding. I also learned that not every idea I have is a great one. When you are a member of a team with a common goal, you must support the weaknesses of other team members and get behind their strengths. As a member of the team working this project, the process taught me how to ‘read’ my teammates in what they needed. I learned to match my behavior to what they needed. I think that is a very important skill in moving teamwork along at a pace that will allow timely completion of a project.
