Over
the past years, I have been involved in a variety of groups. Unfortunately some of these groups ended up
abruptly/prematurely because of time constraints due to work or family commitments. However, there were some very high performing
groups which got all the way to the adjourning stage. Reflecting on
the different groups that I have been involved in, I find that indeed the
high-performing groups are the hardest to leave. One such group was my study group
formed during the completion of my Bachelor’s Degree. This group went through
the five stages of group development; forming,
storming, norming, performing, adjourning (Abudi, 2010). We were a tight knit group who worked well
together in putting on some of the best class projects/assignments as well as
studied together on our journey to receiving our Bachelor’s Degree. As such I formed genuine bonds with the
members resulting in some awesome friendships. To me, the members of this group
had become part of my extended family.
Therefore, when the programme came to an end and we had to go back to
our respective schools, it was a difficult moment. I think that adjourning is an essential stage
of teamwork in that it signifies that the job is done, the work is complete. Although
we were elated that our hard work had paid off, we were rather sad that we had
to go our separate ways – it was a bittersweet moment. However, we have remained very close friends
who are always in constant communication, both on a personal and professional
level. We also find time to meet and have
fun.
I believe that adjourning from the
group of colleagues I have formed while working on your master’s degree in this
program will not be as difficult as adjourning from my study group as I have
not had any personal interactions with anyone.
As a result I have not really bonded with anyone. Nonetheless, it is my hope to keep the
professional relationship going as there are many colleagues with great
experience and love for children and a passion for working with children. As a result I would like to continue learning
from them.
References
Abudi, G. (2010). The five stages of team
development: A case study. Retrieved from http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-five-stages-of-team-development-a-case-study.html
Zephirina,
ReplyDeleteLetting go of such a wonderful group after so long I can only imagine how sad that was. But, I am sure it was a for a good cause…you manage to become a better, stronger person in life today. Working with children we also become so connected to a child and comes to find out tomorrow is his last day; we have to learn to let go. Thanks for post.
Talisha Ghansiam
This is the one harsh thing about online master's program is the disconnect among colleagues. It is important for us to remain in contact throughout our careers as profession references. Adjourning from a group is not always difficult, in some incidents it is very easy to detach from groups.
ReplyDeleteMegan