5. Group dynamic and final project#
Problem and objective trees analysis#
I chose to work on the planktoscope project because I found it very interesting. This open-source project’s main goal is to help study planktons and their impact.
Problem tree#
A problem tree is a diagram used to identify and analyse the root causes of a problem. It helps visualising a problem in a simpler way allowing people to focus and prioritize the most important factors.
Here is the structure of a problem tree: - Trunk : Identify the main problem - Root : Identify the causes of the problem - Branches : Identify the consequences of the problem
Solution tree#
A solution tree is quite similar to a problem tree but it instead show potential solutions to address the identified issues. It helps people brainstorming and developping strategies to resolve problems and their causes.
In a solution tree: - Trunk : Identify the objective - Root : Identify the activities to develop to reach the objective - Branches : Identify the project outcomes
The pictures were made using matplotlib from python.
Group Creation#
To create groups we used an unconventional method. Eveybody had to bring an object with the theme “an object which links” that is in accordance with one of the thematics of the ONU.
I brought a shower handle as a representation to express the problems of water accessibility and water waste.
The first step was for everyone to place their objects on the ground. We then walked in circles to see which objects intrigued us the most.
We then wrote a question concerning the thematic we choosed. We then walked (again) in circles. Now that a question was emitted with each object, it was easier to understand the ideas behind each objects.
After that we walked in circles and started to talk with people with similar thematics than ours. After some more discussing we divided everyone in groups of four or five.
I ended up in a group with: - Martin (brought a plastic cup) - Lou (brought a kitchen tool) - Felix (brought a representation of a urinal) - Othman (me)
Thematics#
To determine wich thematics interessed us the most, we gave a rating to each of them from 1 to 4.
Impressions#
I liked the approach we took as it allows to see everyone’s ideas and picked my curiosity. Also, it allows to see which other students have a similar thematic. It was an unusual but enjoyable experience.
Group Dynamics#
During this cours, we learned lots of tools that could help us with team dynamics. Here are the ones which I found the most interesting.
Rules in the group
We each shared things we hated and loved to come up with a chart of different rules we would all follow. This is a good way to prevent disputes in groups. Here is the chart we came up with.
Creating and assigning roles
We assigned roles based on everyone’s preferences. It’s better to give a task to someone who likes it than to someone who doesn’t. Here are the roles we decided to use for now.
- A secretary in charge of taking notes during meetings.
- An organiser in charge of organising meetings
Some other roles could also be used like these ones.
- A mood keeper to keep the mood up. We decided we would all try to fill this role.
- A time keeper who keeps track of time. We could also call it prioritizer. We also try to all fill this role to make sure we don’t waste time as it is a precious resource.
Taking decisions
Taking decisions is one of the hardest issue during projects. We decided to use two methods to take decisions. We first start with the motivated fingers technique. We each express how high we like or dislike and idea. And after that we use the consentment method as we try to satisfy the most members.
What I learned#
I learned the importance of establishing clear rules at the start of a group project to make sure everyone is on the same page. I also learned to focus on positive feedback by telling other how they can improve instead of just telling them they’re doing something bad.
License#
CC BY-NC-SA 4.0