Collaboration

1
Collaboration

• Research collaboration is common, but it is not
  always a seamless operation.
• What are your experiences with collaborative work
  or projects of any kind?

2
Specifications for writing assignments

• No font smaller than 10 pt.
• Double space
• Write explanatory notes that help me keep track
  of which section you are working on, which parts
  are rewrites, etc.

3
Collaboration

• Advantages

4
Collaboration

• Disadvantages

5
Multiple Authors(see Valiela, pp. 135-136)

• Reasons to share in the authorship
• importance of individuals contribution
• availability and ability to write
• helpful technical support work
• prestigious position
• Usually, the senior author makes final decisions
  on structure of manuscript.
• All authors should be able to defend and explain
  the work in public.

6
Co-authoring Strategies

• What are yours?

7
Collaboration in this class

• We give each other feedback on our writing and
  oral communication skills.
• You will teach in a couple of the classes and
  will present your work to the rest of us.
• You visit with me regularly to discuss your
  writing, etc.

8
CommunicationMechanisms

• Global, electronic
• video-conferencing
• asynchronous editing
• Track Changes in MS Word
• message boards
• e-mail
• phone

• Local, face-to-face
• meetings
• synchronous editing of written info./designs
• informal meetings combine with social event
• Danger distraction

9
Collaboration Team Strategies

• Get to know each other.
• Allow and encourage disagreement.
• Draw out silent partners.
• Try for consensus rather than voting.
• Negotiate use positive language.
• Criticize ideas, not people
• Be flexible.

These strategies work in the United States, at
least.
10
Collaboration Logistical Strategies

• Elect a leader.
• At least, appoint project manager or recorder to
  track decisions made and action items.
• Define jobs at beginning work plan.
• Dont assign work ask for volunteers.
• Talk to team members define differences.
• Break into smaller teams.
• E-mail to stay in touch between meetings.