Lesson 8

Characteristics of an effective team What are they?

They are : Consider these

McCall and Lawlor 2000 Suggest Accept a team culture which implies working honestly and fairly for the team rather than for oneself Develop the capacity to work together and be prepared to learn as a team Work towards consensus decision making as opposed to citing individual performances Be open minded about tasks and obstacles including facing change and trying out new ideas and methods Act responsibly together without the need for headteacher or lead manager supervision

Be willing to explain and justify the teams manner and modes of working and modify these as necessary Accept that teams like individuals are accountable for results

McCall and Lawlor: priorities for an effective team Shared vision and agreed priorities Members have good interpersonal skills Balanced membership Systems in place for exploring different views and opinions Open and clear lines of communication Access to support and necessary expertise Support structures to handle conflict Time for planning and evaluation

Recognition Able to problem solve Team has a clear accepted purpose which is explicit and published