What does the word ‘meeting’ connate? How do you feel when you first hear it? Is it something that drone on like a walking-dead zombie robbing institutions of time, productivity and joy? Or, is it the cornerstone of inspiration, collaboration and sharing?
It’s just the beginning of the week and some people are already grousing about the Monday Syndrome and the coming Level Meeting. Can we manipulate those negative connotations and perceive Level Meetings as a symbol for the beginning of nice series of events? Yes, we can!
We were a small group in PIN in the previous module. There were only 8 teachers in total (7 females- 1 male). Since Andrew had his own Level Meetings on Monday afternoons, he could not attend our meetings. Basically, it was all Ladies’ Afternoon. (You can imagine what I mean by ‘Ladies’ Afternoon’.)
Similar to the group dynamics in a class, the dynamics in work groups and the degree to which the group fulfils the emotional, social and psychological needs of an individual and enhances a person’s self identity are considerably important if you want to generate real team work. Oddly enough, in our very first level meeting we realized that we had such great chemistry and a sense of belonging in our group, which then had a substantial impact on decision making, problem solving and communication. We then thought it could be a good idea to cherish this synergy even more by bringing delicious salads, cakes and cookies. For each meeting, one instructor was assigned to prepare something for the group and we noted this as an informal action. The week we started this practice was a marking week and thanks to the food which boosted our energy level, we noticed that we were able to finish marking before the scheduled timed without any huffs and puffs contrary to those days when we were truly flagging and lethargic! Additionally, there were almost no marking errors! Can you believe it?
In short, if you want to beat the Monday Level Meeting blues, think about how you can add onto the energy and motivation level of your group. As long as we care about each other and feed each other, we can foster productivity and efficiency. What do you think?
Great topic Petek! Not many people talk about meetings in blogosphere but they make such a difference when done in a meaningful way to everyone, I think. And I still remember how delicious the cake was!!! Your meetings should be more often!
Thank you very much Aybike. You are quite right in that “meeting” as an individual concept is pretty much ignored by teachers and bloggers alike , but the way we teach and assess are all directly affected by those critical decisions in meetings. Meetings do deserve more thought,yes