Reflection on the Group work - Essay Example

We were exposed to worldviews and discover alternatives in getting the work done. Extensive discussions and shared of opinions helped to improve our slides and understanding on the topic. In addition, we were able to share our responsibilities and the combination of abilities and skills allowed us to learn from each other and facilitated efficiency and productivity in delivering a quality work. Besides that, we had learnt to respect and understand people from different countries and behaviours thus developing our interpersonal and listening skills.

Team spirit which is not available in an individual work has been a great motivation for us to drive our presentation to success and meet the submission dateline. All in all, it fostered our relationship while working together. Nevertheless, communication breakdown occurred occasionally due to difference in language and not all group members were native speakers. There was misunderstanding on allocation of work at the start of the project due to insufficient communication but was quickly resolved through explanations.

On the other hand, conflicts were unavoidable for example the choice of research country as each team members favour home countries which they are familiar with. However, we were able to reach a consensus and all members showed their work commitments and provided constructive comments throughout the project. Lastly, it can be time consuming to work as a group as individuals have to come together at an agreed time and there would be free talk among group members which might not be relevant to our assigned task.

Additional time spent on resolving conflicts and explaining views had significantly reduced our group efficiency and made it a slow process compared to working individually. I would be more confident in overcoming the difficulties in working in a multicultural group and breakdown the barriers such as stereotypes and prejudices. Additionally, I see communication as the main obstacle thus I would make effort to be more patient and have high tolerance rather than being aggressive. Two-way communication and positive feedbacks are critical to resolve disputes and promote mutual understanding and respect.

Besides that, I would be a good team player offering my skills, giving suggestions, be more co-operative and provide assistance to other team members when required. One of the personal weaknesses identified is that I do not have quick adaption to the change in environment or situation. I faced difficulties in communicating and expressing my views to my team members from diverse culture at the initial stage as I used to stay in my comfort zone. Also, there is lack of experience in dealing and handling conflicts and contradictions.

My other negative trait would be that I tend to be a perfectionist. I like to work in an organized way and often get frustrated when other group members do not portray the same level of effort that I do. I have set a personal goal seek to overcome my weaknesses. I have decided to join societies and clubs in order to widen my circle of friends with different nationalities and countries to enhance my soft skills and develop my confidence in building relationships. The people skills will nevertheless be useful for conflict resolution enabling me to calm and control the situation besides developing problem solving skills.

On the other hand, I would display more patience and accept the fact that all individuals are