Scenario: Team Consensus II

While the majority of team members agree to the proposal, which they argue is in the best interests of the children, Asima and Carl decide to take a collaborative approach and work towards a solution that will address the concerns of Anna and Connor. However, they are not willing to extend the start date of the program beyond 6 weeks.

Anna and Connor are asked to work together to develop a compromise for Asima and Carl to explore that will address their workload concerns while at the same time allow the program to proceed.

They also decide to continue working towards the implementation of their proposal by researching STEM curriculums and identifying any additional resources that may be needed.

Asima and Carl, with the approval of Director Kate, planned and prepared a workshop for the whole team focusing on STEM and how it could be implemented in the services across all age groups.

Q21. Explain how Asima and Carl's decision reflects the three factors suggested by Gulati, Mayo and Nohria (2014) that must be in place for teams to be effective.

• a. Factor 1: Producing meaningful results for the organisation
• b. Factor 2: Satisfy team members
• c. Factor 3: Enhance the ability of team members to work together in the future

Q22. Suggest a procedure/strategy that Asima and Carl could consider to assist Anna and Connor to complete their workplace tasks that supports a compromise.

Scenario: Team Consensus III

The STEM program with the non-sleepers has now been in operation for 8 weeks. The children have responded with great enthusiasm and look forward to the afternoon program. When asked for feedback the children responded: 'I like doing hard work!' We are being scientists, aren't we? Can we do experiment again?' Several children have been able to extend their interest in patterns by working with an educator on a project to take photos of patterns in the environment that they are going to display for the other children and parents.

Anna and Connor worked together on a solution to their needs and now have a system in place which allows them to focus on their work tasks while at the same time contributing to the STEM program. They decided to split their time between the two areas and also work together on STEM planning. Providing an opportunity for Anna and Connor to reach a compromise solution ensured that the STEM program could go ahead without creating tension. This strategy also communicated Asima and Carl's commitment to working towards consensus while at the same time not compromising workplace innovation.

The STEM professional development presented by Asima and Carl was a resounding success and has generated service-wide enthusiasm from both educators and parents. Educators working with the under 3's were particularly grateful to be provided with information that allowed them to explore STEM experiences that could be included in the weekly program.

At an evaluation meeting Kate supported Asima and Carl to identify that introducing change into the program was not simply about a new idea. It requires careful consideration of how to introduce change in ways that allow everyone to feel comfortable, have their view heard and have their concerns addressed in a respectful manner. Kate reinforced the importance of ensuring that all team members are offered the opportunity to have input into planning and decision-making.

Kate thanked Asima and Carl for working with Anna and Connor reach a compromise, heading off potential conflict and promoting team collaboration.

Q23. With reference to the ECA Code of Ethics (In relation to colleagues I will) explain why taking a collaborative approach with Anna and Carl to develop a solution to their workplace concerns supports teamwork, collaborative decision-making, and team planning.

Q24. How did Asima and Carl involve the children and families in seeking feedback or sharing information about the program?

Q25.Explain the benefits to the team of the professional development focusing on STEM offered by Asima and Connor.

Q26. What feedback would you provide to the team members on their team effort and contributions to the program?