6 Summary

Lack of skill in communication is among the worst things that can hamper a team or prevent one team member from contributing effectively. Among communication skills, the ability to give and receive good feedback and the ability to diagnose and avoid poor feedback are of primary importance.

Conflict is an almost inevitable part of a team’s life and while it must be dealt with, it should not be feared or avoided at all costs, as it may bring creative benefits.

Sooner or later, every team has to make its mind up about an important issue. Brainstorming is one of the most effective and popular ways in which teams arrive at decisions. This week you looked at two techniques to aid brainstorming: the stepladder technique and the charrette technique.

You should now be able to:

• outline some of the key skills needed for effective teamwork
• consider how effective the communication skills have been in teams you have been part of
• explain four models of decision making
• understand how to give feedback effectively.

You are now halfway through the course. The Open University would really appreciate your feedback and suggestions for future improvement in our optional end-of-course survey [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] , which you will also have an opportunity to complete at the end of Week 8. Participation will be completely confidential and we will not pass on your details to others.

In Week 5, you will learn about the various categories of diversity and the factors that are contributing to its increase. You will also find out why many employers have come to see increasing workplace diversity as a desirable goal.

You can now go to Week 5.