Communication and Collaboration Strategy Interpersonal

Communication and Collaboration Strategy Interpersonal collaboration and communication are not always easy to achieve, especially in an academic setting, where group work is often required. There are different personalities and learning styles to take into account when optimizing collaboration. When the personality types and learning styles are known, it becomes easier to take the best advantages of each person's strengths to enhance the collaboration experience. To strategize for effective communication and collaboration, three learning styles and three personality types will be taken into account.

In terms of learning styles, the logical/mathematical, the intrapersonal, and the interpersonal styles will be taken into account. Logical/mathematical learners tend to organize their study material logically. They are good at graphic organizers such as charts and graphs, and can explain material sequentially. Intrapersonal learners prefer to reflect on how information affects and reflects upon them personally. They enjoy quiet study settings and visualizing information. Interpersonal learners on the other hand enjoy group settings, discussions, and teaching others.

From this analysis, it is clear that both the logical/mathematical and interpersonal learner are good at explaining material to others. These types of learners in a group setting can then be used to clarify information that is difficult to understand, while intrapersonal learners can be given time to process the information and offer extra insight. It is important that the more outgoing personality types should neither victimize nor ignore the intrapersonal learners, as they can provide valuable and reflective insight.

Logical/Mathematical and Interpersonal learners on the other hand thrive on immediate insight and the dynamic of discussion. In a group setting, the strategy should focus on identifying the logical/mathematical learners, the interpersonal learners, and the intrapersonal learners. Preliminary discussions should then focus upon logically structuring the tasks of the group, led by the Logical / Mathematical thinkers. Once the structure of the discussions have been established, the interpersonal learners can then supplement with additional material and clarification, while reflective discussions can be handled by intrapersonal learners.

Collaboration and Communication among different personality types can also be optimized by knowledge. The three personality types identified include the Thinker, the Organizer, and the Giver. Thinkers tend to reflect independently upon new information. They are good at analysis and abstract thinking, and devising new approaches to complex issues. The organizer in turn prefers clear, concrete task definitions in a structured, stable environment. They tend to carefully organize both their work and their schedules, and require feedback to ensure that they are on the right path.

They are responsible and reliable and work well within social settings. The Giver enjoys studying with others, as well as teaching them. Their main aim is to be helpful to others, while also being honest and clear in expressing their feelings. They are also good at negotiation and aim to communicate openly. In a group setting, these three personality types can work well together if they organize their tasks effectively. The organizer can for example draw up a.