How to Manage Conflict in Learning Teams
- 1). Allow each member of the learning team to present his perception of the problem. Make sure that each team member has a chance to speak. To be sure you comprehend each person's point of view, show your understanding by rephrasing what he says. This reinforces that you’re listening and clears up any confusion.
- 2). Discuss the facts. Besides team members’ ideas, the facts of the situation affect the entire learning team. You may need to do some research to gather relevant information and sort facts from opinions.
- 3). Agree on the issues. You should have enough information to define the problem clearly. Make sure that every team member's impression of the problem is addressed.
- 4). Identify possible solutions. When brainstorming ideas, ensure that all team members are included. Refer to previously gathered information and collect any additional information that could help with creating a solution.
- 5). Agree on a solution. Many possible resolutions may be possible, and negotiating your team's solution may cause some debate. Find an answer that’s acceptable to the greatest number of people. Experts recommend the “win-win” style of negotiation (see Resources).
