"Super Chickens"

In Margaret Heffernan’s TEDTalk Why it's time to forget the pecking order at work, she presents viewers with an idea of what the most productive group work looks like. Hefferman believes that groups are most successful when there are no “superstars” taking responsibility for all of the work, everyone is contributing, and there is a strong sense of social connectedness among group members that the promotes helpfulness or “[working] among people who are good at getting and giving help” (Hefferman, 2015) that is key to group success and productivity.

Although I agree with Heffernan’s sentiments that group work is most successful and beneficial when there is a sense of equality, camaraderie, and freedom to express ideas and opinions, I could not help but revert back to my “why” as I was viewing this video and begin asking many questions. As I have stated in previous posts, I am a very strong proponent of recognizing the individuality of learners and finding ways to cater to various learning styles in order for learners to bring out their most productive selves. That is my “why” for entering this program. Also, the COVA and UDL model we learned about in the 5302 course further supports the idea that allowing individuals to choose how they learn and show evidence of learning is a very important aspect in increasing success. Therefore, as I watched Heffernan’s presentation, I found myself asking these questions:

1. Is she taking into account the learning styles of the individuals within groups?

2. How does Heffernan define “contribution” to the group?

3. What does “contribution” look like to her?

4. Is her idea of “contribution” simply talking and doing with one another or does she also consider the more introverted person who may process information and ideas better when alone and then brings that information back to the group via writing or graphic presentations?

These are all things I would be interested in knowing.

Resources:

TED. (2015, June 16). Why it's time to forget the pecking order at work? [Video file]. Retrieved fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vyn_xLrtZaY&feature=youtu.be.