Group Dynamics

A) Introduction: Group dynamics in academic environment cannot often simulate actual team works in real world. For example, teams in academic environment do not often have any outside influence over decision making. So, group members cannot experience how to live or handle with such influence to make critical decisions. But still these group works are a great source of learning because we are forced to delegate responsibilities, set and meet time requirement, manage individual differences, collaborate, lead people with strong sense of self actualization and awareness, support each other, influence, or provide feedback.
As a means to understanding group formation, learning experience and effectiveness of our study group- this report tries to high light on the key aspects of our group dynamics: group composition, group dynamics, communication, coordination, member contributions, feedback, decision making, and team-learning.
B) Group composition/atmosphere/norms: Groups here in INSEAD typically have 1 or 2 consultants, 1 Indian, 0 or 2 woman and rest are Europeans. Ours is also typical one. Professional backgrounds are diverse though academic backgrounds are similar. In terms of personality we may be lacking variety and balance. Four of the members have an inclination to see the big picture or see connections whereas miss the necessary details required for doing the things right at ground level. Adel is the only person with strong inclination for results and practicality. This is a potential weakness for the group as it has proved to be in a few occasions.
Our group atmosphere is generally friendly and congenial. We are yet to experience any conflict or unpleasant feelings because we all value humility and we live the INSEAD spirit of collaboration rather than cut throat competition. It is not that we are trying to be nice as we need to be. I would argue that it is an important social norm of our group. But it is true that there has been no real test to this