I agree with Rheingold that people have a basic instinct to work together collaboratively. I am a strong believer that two heads are better than one. Teamwork allows members to express their ideas to reach a common goal. No one person knows all their is to know about a topic. We must work together to reach the maximum potential. When we work collaboratively we gain knowledge and insight from our group that may not be discovered if the work was completed individually.
Technology is opening the door to collaboration world wide. Due to the capabilities of the Internet and the advancements in technology we now can interact with others across the globe. I never thought that I would be able to obtain a degree by completing classes online. Also, technologies such as wikis, Skype, Googledocs, and Facebook allow individuals to collaborate instantly on specific topics. People from all over the world can collaborate using these technologies because it allows individuals to work together even when they are not at the same place at the same time. I do not believe that all things should be completed collaboratively. However, many subjects and goals align themselves with collaboration and teamwork. I believe that we are entering into a more collaborative society than we have ever experienced before. This will be a transition but the benefits will be substantial. Collaboration is beneficial when it is done effectively. Collaboration is effective when approached with the end in mind. All members must identify the goal and work together to reach the stated goal.
Reference:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer) (2008). "Way-New Collaboration." featuring
Dr. Howard Rheingold [http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/howard rheingold on
collaboration. html.]
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Rhonda,
ReplyDeleteI agree that people are born with the natural instinct to work collaboratively. If we all liked and agreed upon the same ideas would we change? Would society as a whole change? I am a strong believer that in order to grow and expand, there must be change. Change occurs thru collaboration, teamwork,and communication. Technology is an enhancement that helps to improve the learning process through collaboration, teamwork, and communication.
Emmorfia
Emmorfia,
ReplyDeleteUniqueness of ideas is what makes the world an interesting place. I believe like you that change does involve collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Collaboration and teamwork helps one to embrace change more comfortably.
Rhonda
Rhonda,
ReplyDeleteYou are right on - two heads are better than one. When we have a great group of people working together as a team, we can be effective humans. It is up to each individual to make the team work. Unfortunately, we cannot count on everyone to be a great team player. I do agree, however, that when we do have great team players, the tools available help us to be more effective and efficient.
Rhonda,
ReplyDeleteI am a believer that technology has enhanced collaboration. I also believe that although, collaboration is a natural instinct however, some may lose those skills along the way. I think when collaboration is done effectively in a school, business, etc. the outcome is wonderful.