Interactive Group Discussion - Essay Example

Interactive Group Discussion The moment the members of my group were known to me, I was skeptical; we all hailed from a diverse linguistic backgrounds. Never before had I worked with such a multicultural group in any study. I did not know what was hunch it was going to be a demanding task. We met and decided to hold the meeting concerning the PID. The challenge felt intriguing but also the fear of what might become of our group was on the back of my mind. The first meeting was held on 6 November. We discussed on major issues such as the appropriate RFP for the group to tackle. We suggested the possible name and settled on Prince 2 as our group we then set the meeting day and time for the next meeting. This made me look into ways of helping the group. Incorporating lessons, group work and individual support were the main thing that made me look forward for the success of the group work. This meeting enlightened me on major issues. For one the group member looked promising and optimistic. I figured out that working with them would not be as bad as I had previously imagined. The second meeting was marked by disseminating roles in accordance with the Prince 2 guidelines .The selection and dissemination of tasks was also undertaken. Adel Grain was appointed the project manager by consensus. This undertaking made me question the act of choosing leaders in a novel environment. We discussed the RFP. There were four applicable RFB’s. Eventually we zeroed on one but two of the members disagreed with the choice. We studied the proposed RFP keenly and considered every aspect to it. This was enabled by interactive group discussion which gave opportunity to each member to speak out. Finally we decided on a RFP and each member was asked to study it deeply and come up with issues that arose from it. This aspect of group work arose from group work as well as group think. We were able to co-ordinate individual views and intertwine it with the group views. The next meeting we checked on various issues concerned with the PID. The structure was decided on. The PRINCE 2 could act as the guide to each member during the working period. In line with this , each member was expected to study the PRINCE 2 structure closely .The work was to be chosen by each individual in the group this paved way for the development of ,R&D.Members were expected to carry out documentation .The incorporation of individual aspect was to come out at this stage. The individual perspective was to be read out at the next meeting. In the following meetings project approach was identified. Technological Road Map (TRM) was identified. This however presented a new challenge to us. To begin with two project members had to be explained to what TRM entail as they found it very complex .The identification of objectives brought forward an issue especially on the last. The objective mentioned that The TRM method and other optional methods. This was an issue as the objective was overloaded and vague. Members deliberated and we modified it to only one method. Decision on communication on completion of the work was decided. The group zeroed on email as the best method. Communication was an important aspect in any group interaction. The members were to keep in touch through the use of emails and also physical meetings. The prior, use of emails had pros and cons. To begin with the method was good as it was fast and time saving. Consinders that internet based surveys may save time for researchers as access can be gained to large number of individuals within a short time. ( Wright, 2005 p 8) . In so doing it meant that communication could take place any time of the day as all one needed was a computer and internet connection. Another advantage was that the communication could take place simultaneously between several individuals. (Mann, 2002 p 2) notices , ‘The internet enables to an interchange of messages between two or more users logged at different computer terminals’. However, the methods had certain disadvantages. One could not read on the emotional state of the other counterpart. This disabled emotional support and group encouragement that comes in a physical interaction. (Wright, 2002). He mentions that emotional support between individuals suffering from cancer is impossible by the use of the internet. Words do not fill the emotional gap that makes us human. The problem of connection was another issue with it. The internet could slow down. This error posed a problem as one was not certain if the messages were delivered. This could also result to delays and uncertainties caused by delays. (Fricker, 2002) mentions that the reality of speed is not always hype and thus there are also shortcomings and low downloads. Finally, cost was a problem brought about by the use of emails. The cost of connection was high. This was a hindrance as members could at times fail to access the internet as they failed to purchase data. In an introspect I was thankful that we had resorted to this kind of communication. I wondered what would have become of the group could be we had resorted to physical meetings. Inconveniences such as; absenteeism and lateness could have posed such a serious challenge. This was catered for by the use of email. I only had to write one email it and forward to the rest of the members. In so doing, the end result of everyone’s work had incorporated aspects and ideas from all individuals. The work was therefore rich and splendid. However the method could at times pose problems such as network issues. Internet connectivity could break down and thus we could not communicate. Language differences were another barrier in communication. Owing that the group members hailed from different cultural backgrounds Furthermore, the English language was not a first language to most of the members( Thorne & Henley 1985) mentions that teaching and learning in a different language is challenging both to the instructor and learner . This meant that we had to clarify things and refer to articles to get a grip on connotations given to various aspects. Expression of personal opinions was met with breakdowns as we could at times miss out on some points. (D McCarthy, 1993 p.3) consinders contrast in language between people , a challenge in communication. (Ogbu, 1994 p8) mentions that ‘A great obstacle to thetherapeutic bond occurs when a language barrier exists between the doctor and patient’. This led to various issues, for we lagged behind in the group work. Writing was also met with the challenge as members would fail to get the correct spelling, tense and at times grammar. Challenge in communication as a result of difference in backgrounds I look back to the group work. The challenges it posed and the good times. The project entailed group think, unity and support. This made me feel great about the whole experience. I learn to think beyond me. I learnt a lot from different cultures from my group members. This is an experience I cherished, and have no regrets whatsoever. If ever given a chance to work in such a context I will gladly accept .I have a strong feeling the project will be as good as the discussion. Bibliography Hampers, L. C., Cha, S., Gutglass, D. J., Binns, H. J., & Krug, S. E. (1999). Language barriers and resource utilization in a pediatric emergency department. Pediatrics, 103(6), 1253-1256. Mann, Chris. Internet communication and qualitative research: A handbook for researching online. Sage, 2000. Ogbu , J. U. (1992). Understanding cultural diversity and learning. Educational researcher, 21(8), 5-14. R.D Fricker FieldMann, Chris. Internet communication and qualitative research: A handbook for researching online. Sage, 2000. Methods (2002) Thorne, Barrie, and Nancy Henley. "Language and sex: Difference and dominance." (1975). Read More