The Importance of Teamwork in Education

Groups

Teams

• Members work independently and they often are not working towards the same goal.

• Members work interdependently and work towards both personal and team goals, and they understand these goals are accomplished best by mutual support.

• Members focus mostly on themselves because they are not involved in the planning of their group’s objectives and goals.

• Members feel a sense of ownership towards their role in the group because they committed themselves to goals they helped create.

• Members are given their tasks or told what their duty/job is, and suggestions are rarely welcomed.

• Members collaborate together and use their talent and experience to contribute to the success of the team’s objectives.

• Members are very cautious about what they say and are afraid to ask questions. They may not fully understand what is taking place in their group.

• Members base their success on trust and encourage all members to express their opinions, varying views, and questions.

• Members do not trust each other’s motives because they do not fully understand the role each member plays in their group.

• Members make a conscious effort to be honest, respectful, and listen to every person’s point of view.

• Members may have a lot to contribute but are held back because of a closed relationship with each member.

• Members are encouraged to offer their skills and knowledge, and in turn each member is able contribute to the group’s success.

• Members are bothered by differing opinions or disagreements because they consider it a threat. There is not group support to help resolve problems.

• Members see conflict as a part of human nature and they react to it by treating it as an opportunity to hear about new ideas and opinions. Everybody wants to resolve problems constructively.

• Members may or may not participate in group decision-making, and conformity is valued more than positive results.

• Members participate equally in decision-making, but each member understands that the leader might need to make the final decision if the team cannot come to a consensus agreement.