Group Work

HD341-Communication For Empowerment

Group Work
Cherilyn Helguera
July 17,2015

Group Work

Most assignments whether in school or work are done independently. Yet, there
are some that require a group effort. Working within a group has positives and negatives.
Many people frown on working with others, but there are those that enjoy the idea of
sharing the workload. I was one that did not enjoy the idea of working within a group. I
fear being the reason the group does not succeed. I found there are benefits to working
with groups.
First, there is sharing of the assignment. This can become quite helpful when
trying to accomplish a tedious task. Being able to divide the assignment or activity into
equal parts can take away stress and consumption of time for completion. It is always
beneficial to make sure what is divided is accomplishable. You would need to make sure
the others within the group are confident with their task. I found it less frustrating to ask
the person if they feel comfortable, if not, then ask if they would like some assistance
from each person in understanding and accomplishing the task.
Next, collaborating within a group is productive. All my ideas are not perfect and
correct. By participating in-group assignments I learned that others ideas, opinions, and
creativity should always be accepted. I realized that opening myself to accepting new
ideas from others makes for expanded creativity. I enjoy brainstorming to see how farther
and bigger a project can evolve into.
Finally, presenting an assignment or project is helpful when working with a
group. One person is not solely responsible for gathering information, putting together
the presentation, and then presenting it. By having a group, the assignment is equally
divided and each person has his or her part. There is less memorizing when giving a
presentation. Groups offer support in ways that individual work cannot.

Group Work

I am currently working with a young African-American woman. I understand

how culture can be a factor within a professional setting. My division requires team effort
everyday at our sites. Communication is key, so when failed, the problems arise within
the workplace. I have tried my best to be considerate and open minded to this womans
ideas by respecting her opinions of the classroom. At first glance, one could say they see
a simple, uneducated, overbearing woman because she is loud, bold, and speaks using
slang words.
Instead, I took time to see past the exterior and found a very well educated and
creative woman. I found out culturally that everyone in her family is loud and controlling.
Since she grew up this way that is all she knows. By patiently looking past all that was in
front of me, I saw her. She has now become a good friend and I have learned more from
her then many other teachers I have worked with. I believe we make an amazing team
and I am proud to work by her side everyday.