How to effectively navigate group dynamics

Working within teams is a process that involves diverse personalities, different roles and different communication styles. Recognizing these challenges, our recent  course aimed to equip participants with essential skills, in order to booster  team efficiency and foster positive workplace environments. By participating in the course, our participants received valuable insights on how to improve their abilities as team leaders and team members, both within classroom settings and among colleagues.
The new edition of the course “Effective Group Management in education: building Teamwork among students” took place in Bologna from 28/04/2024 to 04/05/2024. The participants came from all across Europe, with Liise from Lümanda Põhikool in Estonia; Sandra from Agrupamento de Escolas de Resende in Portugal; Vanesa from EOI Monforte in Spain; Catherine, Jean-luc, Yann and Bernard from lprontaunay in France and Astrid from Maison de l'Europe de Tours Centre Val de Loire in France.

During the course we delved into various aspects of teamwork and leadership. Initially, we explored the distinction between groups and teams, emphasizing the importance of a common goal as the driving force behind effective teamwork. Participants gained insights into different stages of team growth and the characteristics that define each stage, equipping them with strategies to navigate challenges and foster synergy within the team.
A significant focus was placed, also, on the importance of team roles. Through interactive group activities, participants experienced firsthand the consequences of role ambiguity. This experience highlighted the necessity for clear role definition, in order to avoid confusion and promote productivity in the team.

On the third day we concentrated on effective team leadership. Participants learned about the importance of adaptability and understanding individual strengths and group dynamics. They discovered different leadership styles, each with its own pros and cons and learned how to tailor their approach to every team and situation. Moreover, they learned basic coaching skills and recognized the value of using a growth mindset to maintain the team’spositive attitude and motivation.
We addressed the importance of Emotional intelligence and Conflict management as two important skills for the team leader and team member. Through many practical exercises, participants experimented some explored their emotions and they discussed the opportunities that can arise from conflicts in teams.
Lastly, we explored the importance of feedback as a formative assessment strategy.

Overall it was a rewarding week, fullof valuable experiences, knowledge sharing and enjoyable moments! As the course concluded, participants left equipped with a fresh set of tools and strategies, motivated to implement them effectively in their classrooms.
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More info on this course here.