Methods of Developing Social Factors

Social Factors We have mainly focussed on the Social sub-factor ‘Team Dynamics’. However, there are many others that can be considered such as; Communication Teamwork Role Models (Coach, Team Captain)

Methods of Developing Social Factors The two main methods we will identify to help improve Social Factors listed previously are; Team Building Exercises Group Practises These would be incorporated within a normal training sessions prior to competing.

Approach to Develop Social factor Social Factor – Team Dynamics, Communication, Role Models, Team Work Approach for development – Team Building Practices Team building exercises help to build team morale where team mates learn to rely on each other. It develops peoples’ strengths as well as addresses weaknesses

Why choose Team Building Exercises? Team building should be enjoyable and often takes place away from the working environment eg Outdoor centre, Assault course or in a Gym Hall The exercises aim to get the team interacting with each other (communicating/sharing ideas/agreeing a course of action) to achieve the common goal. Quality time together as a team will allow team members to establish positive rapport with each other and help identify each others strengths and weaknesses within a game context to help them work out best course of action to achieve objectives. Tasks are set up specifically to develop team skills - players learn to become more effective and achieve success whilst at the same time having fun Team building exercises aim to improve teamwork, communication skills, leadership qualities, motivation and playing as a team.

Problems with Team Building Exercises Players have to buy into the concept of team building exercises otherwise in the heat of the game players may go back to their old ways of arguing with each other and refusing to cooperate. When using small groups it would be important to mix up groups every so often to ensure ‘cliques’ do not form. The aim is to strengthen the team as a whole.

Team Building Exercises… Human Knot Cross the Canyon

Group / Team Practises Another method that can be used to develop the social factors listed above are skills practises within training sessions that involve you working together with other people in a group or pair. This would develop and hone social/physical skills, improve team tactics (team games) or factors of a dance routine (pair or group dances – various disciplines).

Fast Break example of skills practice…

Benefits of using Group Practices… Develops key social skills of communication, cooperation and team work. Allows team members to understand each others roles and responsibilities within a team tactics/routines. Cooperating can also be used to learn new skills. The main aim is to help make learning easier for a partner or team mate so they can practice the skill to a competent level without added pressure. Allows all performers to continue to develop their own physical skills and techniques concurrently. Allows coach to provide feedback on social aspects (e.g. when to ‘call’ for a pass, encourage positive praise among team members).

Drawbacks of Group Practises on improving Social Factors May isolate individuals within team that show inconsistent skill level / form. Team members may not wish to work with them in practises or the individual may withdraw themselves from the group. May reduce morale if team are unable to complete practices successfully. ‘Cliques’ may form if groups are not rotated frequently enough.