A1.1 Forming Teams

Introduction

Based on your experience in this course and others, you undoubtedly know the strengths and struggles of working as part of a team. As you and your instructor decide upon who will comprise each team, many issues must be considered. For example, you will want to form a balanced team in terms of the skills needed to complete a major problem-solving endeavor. This activity focuses on forming teams based on the problems that most interest you. If you are not excited about finding a solution to the problem that you are working on, then the remainder of the course will be more difficult. Often times skills that the team is lacking can be compensated for, as long as all participants are actively engaged and interested in the process. This activity will determine who you work with and what you will work on for the remainder of the year. 

Equipment

• Engineering notebook
• Poster board or poster size Post-it notes
• Markers

Procedure

You will create and present a poster to be evaluated by your classmates. This activity will provide a team formation starting point. This information and input from your instructor will be the basis for dividing the class into teams.

Presenting Problem Ideas

1. On a poster board, feature your top 3 problem ideas. Include research support for each.
2. Present your ideas to the rest of the class in a convincing manner.
3. During your classmates’ presentations, take notes. Determine presentations that identify interests similar to your own.
4. Work with your instructor to form teams.

Conclusion

1. What strengths will you contribute to your team?
2. Describe how a team can transition from individuals with their own interests to a team that works together toward a common goal.