Briefly outline an example of collaborative conflict resolution that you have engaged in. Contrast that with a competitive conflict. Which was more satisfying to you? To the other party?
In a collaborative conflict, it is considered a win-win situation. For this situation, nobody is supposed to be better than the other. Everyone has the opportunity to share their own opinions regarding significant issues. It also requires each member to listen carefully to different perspectives, and be able to come up with the best solution. In my experience working in small groups, I notice that most of the time we have collaborative conflict. We each had our own viewpoints which needed to be clearly explained. Each member need to take time to comprehend what everyone else is saying. Inevitably, we all disagreed all certain things but it comes with the territory. Everyone each explained with great detail why their own ideas were solid. Eventually, we combined the strengths of each perspectives into the final decision. As a result, I was satisfied with the end result since everyone contributed toward the process.
A competitive conflict is defined as a win-lose predicament. This is where an individual’s own opinions come into play, instead of coming to a mutual agreement. I have encountered instances where I was involved in competitive conflict. My friend and I have different tastes when it comes to television shows. He takes interests in a show like “Big Bang Theory”, while I prefer “Entourage”. There are times where we would try to persuade our friends to watch one show over the other. We would explain the greatness of our preferred show while stating the negatives of the shows we dislike. Although we were competitive, it was all in good fun.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Discussion week 14 number 1
Distinguish among a forum, panel, colloquium, and symposium as a mans for making a public presentation. Which one would you prefer? Why?
A forum, panel, colloquium, and symposium are all significant methods in discussion and presentations. A forum is where a group has the chance to speak and listen to the opinions from an audience. All audience members have the chance to participate in the discussion. After the group presentation, the audience can offer their own viewpoints on specific topics. Each member take turns in speaking their mind. A moderator might pick the speakers or they line up behind the microphone. The speakers mention their standing on an issue, give their arguments, and answer to questions and commend from the audience.
A panel is a public setting where a group of four to eight experts converse on an issue in front of audience members. The format uses problem solving methods in a lighter way of communication to gain the audience’s interest. The moderator first gives an explanation of the format, introduces the problems that will be discussed, and gives a brief background on the speakers. They also record the time, and review the speaker’s stand on the issues. There is no communication involved between the expert panelists and audience members.
In a colloquium is where three to six experts are picked for their contrasting viewpoints, talk about the problems by using the problem solving concept. Everything is in front of the audience with the moderator leading the conversation. Its objective is to “identify, develop, and work through possible solutions to a problem for the benefit and with participation of the audience” (220). The moderator introduced the colloquium, announces the problem, talks about the group, and gives the discussion format. They have to specifically persuade participation from the audience by allowing them to comment and provide queries. A symposium is “a series of two to six brief speeches made on different aspects of a complex and difficult problem” (221). All the speakers are knowledgeable on certain areas within the problem. The objective is to provide “complex technical information to the audience about the problem” (221). Every speech is well organized, rehearsed, and professional which does not allow audience members to interrupt.
The format I prefer is the forum because it allows the audience to be involved. It gives people the chance to raise questions they were unsure about from hearing the presentation. From asking questions and offering opinions, it helps them understand more on the problems. The speakers will also learn more about the audience’s contrasting takes on particular issues. Most importantly, people will become more interested during the presentation in a forum setting.
A forum, panel, colloquium, and symposium are all significant methods in discussion and presentations. A forum is where a group has the chance to speak and listen to the opinions from an audience. All audience members have the chance to participate in the discussion. After the group presentation, the audience can offer their own viewpoints on specific topics. Each member take turns in speaking their mind. A moderator might pick the speakers or they line up behind the microphone. The speakers mention their standing on an issue, give their arguments, and answer to questions and commend from the audience.
A panel is a public setting where a group of four to eight experts converse on an issue in front of audience members. The format uses problem solving methods in a lighter way of communication to gain the audience’s interest. The moderator first gives an explanation of the format, introduces the problems that will be discussed, and gives a brief background on the speakers. They also record the time, and review the speaker’s stand on the issues. There is no communication involved between the expert panelists and audience members.
In a colloquium is where three to six experts are picked for their contrasting viewpoints, talk about the problems by using the problem solving concept. Everything is in front of the audience with the moderator leading the conversation. Its objective is to “identify, develop, and work through possible solutions to a problem for the benefit and with participation of the audience” (220). The moderator introduced the colloquium, announces the problem, talks about the group, and gives the discussion format. They have to specifically persuade participation from the audience by allowing them to comment and provide queries. A symposium is “a series of two to six brief speeches made on different aspects of a complex and difficult problem” (221). All the speakers are knowledgeable on certain areas within the problem. The objective is to provide “complex technical information to the audience about the problem” (221). Every speech is well organized, rehearsed, and professional which does not allow audience members to interrupt.
The format I prefer is the forum because it allows the audience to be involved. It gives people the chance to raise questions they were unsure about from hearing the presentation. From asking questions and offering opinions, it helps them understand more on the problems. The speakers will also learn more about the audience’s contrasting takes on particular issues. Most importantly, people will become more interested during the presentation in a forum setting.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Week 14, Number 3
Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
A concept I found to be interesting was on focus groups. If there is a question an individual wants to know, it is best to ask the people in the group. There is a possibility that they might not know the answer, but they might give great suggestion to one’s issue. A focus group gives specific and complete solutions to a particular problem. It assists people in finding each other’s “values, interests, and attitudes” (206). Usually in a focus group, the facilitator brings up a specific question to the group and they have a discussion. By asking questions, this helps the group to evaluate certain issues from detailed conversation. Everyone makes an effort in observing the important details.
I like how the focus groups record the whole meeting and analyze it afterwards. It is important to not forget the crucial statements during the group discussion. Advertising and marketing agencies use focus groups to review a customer’s like or dislike on a product. By looking over the weaknesses and strengths, they can become even more successful. I like how in focus groups, people are asked open ended questions and can give their own opinions. They don’t have to focus on arriving to one solution. It is essential to concentrate more on the problems at hand.
A concept I found to be interesting was on focus groups. If there is a question an individual wants to know, it is best to ask the people in the group. There is a possibility that they might not know the answer, but they might give great suggestion to one’s issue. A focus group gives specific and complete solutions to a particular problem. It assists people in finding each other’s “values, interests, and attitudes” (206). Usually in a focus group, the facilitator brings up a specific question to the group and they have a discussion. By asking questions, this helps the group to evaluate certain issues from detailed conversation. Everyone makes an effort in observing the important details.
I like how the focus groups record the whole meeting and analyze it afterwards. It is important to not forget the crucial statements during the group discussion. Advertising and marketing agencies use focus groups to review a customer’s like or dislike on a product. By looking over the weaknesses and strengths, they can become even more successful. I like how in focus groups, people are asked open ended questions and can give their own opinions. They don’t have to focus on arriving to one solution. It is essential to concentrate more on the problems at hand.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Week 13 Post 2
Name five cultural barriers to creativity. Why do you think these would keep a group from being creative? Have you experienced any of these personally? Explain.
The five cultural barriers involve conformity, expectation of practicality and efficiency, situations for competition or cooperation, expectation of politeness, and relying on expert knowledge. These barriers prevents a group from being creative because people are more used to following set rules which places them on equal footing with everyone else. Ever since starting school, students are taught to raise hands, stand in line, listen carefully to the teacher, and abide by other specific rules. Because of this, we often develop the habit of following too close to the book. We put too much reliance on book concepts which prevents us from developing our own ideas. As a result, people do not notice many things from a different perspective. There are times where individuals need to branch out and think of new examples, thoughts, and solutions.
I have experienced the requirement to be polite and following rules for social order. In Chinese culture, we are expected to treat adults with respect, especially our parents. There was a moment where I disagreed on my dad’s ideas on raising the prices in the menu. I thought the current prices were fine, and did not need to go any higher. I told him that it would not be a good idea, since customers might not be pleased with it. There is the possibility that this might turn them away from eating at our successful restaurant. After hearing what I had to say, my father was not too pleased. He mentioned that it was his decision only, and he believed the food was too cheap. My father was disappointed that I would go too far in arguing with his idea. From that time on, I realized that it was the wrong course of action. There were many customers that still came, even though there was a raise in prices. Since my dad has led the business for many years, I should have trusted his instincts. Even though I had my doubts, it was inconsiderate of me to argue with my father.
The five cultural barriers involve conformity, expectation of practicality and efficiency, situations for competition or cooperation, expectation of politeness, and relying on expert knowledge. These barriers prevents a group from being creative because people are more used to following set rules which places them on equal footing with everyone else. Ever since starting school, students are taught to raise hands, stand in line, listen carefully to the teacher, and abide by other specific rules. Because of this, we often develop the habit of following too close to the book. We put too much reliance on book concepts which prevents us from developing our own ideas. As a result, people do not notice many things from a different perspective. There are times where individuals need to branch out and think of new examples, thoughts, and solutions.
I have experienced the requirement to be polite and following rules for social order. In Chinese culture, we are expected to treat adults with respect, especially our parents. There was a moment where I disagreed on my dad’s ideas on raising the prices in the menu. I thought the current prices were fine, and did not need to go any higher. I told him that it would not be a good idea, since customers might not be pleased with it. There is the possibility that this might turn them away from eating at our successful restaurant. After hearing what I had to say, my father was not too pleased. He mentioned that it was his decision only, and he believed the food was too cheap. My father was disappointed that I would go too far in arguing with his idea. From that time on, I realized that it was the wrong course of action. There were many customers that still came, even though there was a raise in prices. Since my dad has led the business for many years, I should have trusted his instincts. Even though I had my doubts, it was inconsiderate of me to argue with my father.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
DIscussion number one on Creativity
In most instances, it is hard for me to think creatively on a lot of things. When it comes to working at my parent’s restaurant, I often think of ideas based on a few years of experience. During the weekends, the restaurant is packed with customers especially for take out. There are moments where customers get disappointed after waiting for an order for a long period of time. Unfortunately, some might decide to cancel their order and want their money back. Even I became a little bit frustrated seeing customers wait too long for their take out order to come out. One day, I decided to create a take out waiting list where I write down the names and numbers of the people who are inside the restaurant. By doing this, there has to be an employee who goes back and check if the order is the ready. They have to let the packers know to first pack the orders of customers who are waiting in front. I noticed that the orders arrived quicker, and customers became satisfied.
I feel that this experience fit into the chapter’s concepts of creativity. I was basically learning from past experience of witness customers complaining over waiting too long for their food. By creating a waiting list, it was a trial and error experiment that was not previously used. I looked at the previous issues as a chance to improve customer service. It did not feel like an obstacle that will hinder our established success. There was not the reliance of having to wait for the packer to bring out the take out food. From using some of these guidelines, I felt I put my creative problem solving skills to good use.
I feel that this experience fit into the chapter’s concepts of creativity. I was basically learning from past experience of witness customers complaining over waiting too long for their food. By creating a waiting list, it was a trial and error experiment that was not previously used. I looked at the previous issues as a chance to improve customer service. It did not feel like an obstacle that will hinder our established success. There was not the reliance of having to wait for the packer to bring out the take out food. From using some of these guidelines, I felt I put my creative problem solving skills to good use.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Week 13 discussion on Interesting concept
One concept I found interesting was openness. Before, I did not realize openness as a significant factor in creativity. There are some people who feel shy to voice their messages. They fear the negative response they might receive when offering their opinions. Most are unsure how honest they should be in conveying their message. It is possible that other individuals will use the person’s statement and argue against it. The person might also wonder how others will express their true feelings and opinions on certain subjects.
In previous group assignments, I often hold back my opinions in discussions. I usually think about how members will react to particular things I might say. My partners offer great suggestions; therefore, I feel that my thoughts will waste the group’s time. What I should have realized is that group activities give you the opportunity to speak your mind. Others will listen to anything you say if it contributes to group discussion. It is an open forum where anyone can feel free to share their opinions. Eventually, an open group will help in a creative group environment.
In previous group assignments, I often hold back my opinions in discussions. I usually think about how members will react to particular things I might say. My partners offer great suggestions; therefore, I feel that my thoughts will waste the group’s time. What I should have realized is that group activities give you the opportunity to speak your mind. Others will listen to anything you say if it contributes to group discussion. It is an open forum where anyone can feel free to share their opinions. Eventually, an open group will help in a creative group environment.
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