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Helpful strategies for building and maintaining successful teams
Problem solving
- Clarify the question or problem.
- Brainstorm alternatives without judgement.
- Discuss alternatives.
- Use consensus decision-making.
Conflict resolution
Conflict is natural. While it may not feel good, conflict yields opportunities to grow and to better understand one another. In addition, conflict often leads to solutions.
Aspects of conflict resolution
Confront the conflict (primarily, the role of the facilitator) and calmly express views.
Encourage open discussion to establish a clear definition of the problem.
Use active listening without interruption.
Without judgement, seek and discuss solutions. (Criticise ideas not people, accept criticism without defensiveness, try to see the other person’s point of view.)
Use consensus decision-making; if compromise is a chosen route, define how and when to evaluate if the compromise is working.
Maintaining relationships
Positive, respectful relationships between all team members are the essence of collaborative team work, and maintaining ongoing communication is central to these relationships.
Some ways to maintain relationships
- Establish agreement of the preferred way(s) of communicating among team members. For example, email, face-to-face meetings, phone, other.
- Aim for contact at least once per month.
- Arrange classroom visits (with prior agreement)
- Create student portfolios for other team members to view and review.
- If possible, use photos and videos of the student learning
- Keep team members, particularly parents, informed so that there are no surprises at meetings
IEP Helpful Strategies
Downloadable Word doc that has suggestions for building and maintaining successful teams