Camping trips have dominated my non-classroom learning experience, presenting various challenges that required teamwork and collaboration from all students. Indeed, these field trips have been very educative, instilling skills vital for survival in the real world. In a recent camping trip, we were divided into groups and given tasks that required combining our skills and talents to find our way through the camping region. Moreover, we had to find supplies hidden throughout the area through clues given to us by the camping coordinator. While the task was challenging, teamwork prevailed, and we managed to complete all the obstacles. One critical lesson I learned during the field trip is that conflicts are a setback in teams. Within my group, we often found ourselves quarreling over a decision people disagreed. Moreover, a division within the group was evident, derailing the overall progress. However, we managed to resolve the conflicts through listening, understanding and interpreting the situation.
Another lesson I learned from the non-classroom learning experience is to have an open mind when facing challenges. Resilience and determination are critical to achieving set goals and objectives. Being open-minded encompasses the willingness to listen to others and weigh in on the ‘evidence’ presented by each party. Nevertheless, teams comprise of diverse students whose perspectives may not match those of other team members. More often, these varying perspectives led to conflicts within the group. In one instance, a group member did not want the chosen group leader to take charge due to previous conflicts between them. As such, more time was spent arguing about their issues than formulating strategies to maneuver the course. Regardless, through conflict resolution, open-mindedness, and listening, we managed to set the pace running on achieving the ultimate goal. We learned that while opinions vary, understanding each person's perspective is vital to achieving a given goal.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Reflecting on these non-classrooms learning activities, learning outside the classroom is beneficial, fostering a better learning experience. Individually, I developed self-esteem and became more engaged in the learning process. Moreover, I learned how to relate well with others and understand their opinions and perspectives on different values, beliefs, and standpoints. Setting achievable goals is the first step to making progress, and with determination, success comes easily. For instance, the camping trip taught me that the world is full of challenges of different magnitudes, and resolving these challenges requires effort, collaboration, and communication. On many occasions, we either fail to communicate the right message to others or do not consider others' opinions. As such, we fail to see the solutions right in front of us. Through the non-classroom learning experience, I have embraced open-mindedness.
Teamwork, effective communication, and coordination are essential tools both in the classroom and in the workplace. The key to success is making use of those around you and assisting one another in seeking assistance to challenging problems or situations. As a strategy, effective collaboration among team members translates to listening to each person's opinions without prejudice and ensuring that everyone conforms to the final decision. In essence, teamwork and communication will comprise my strategy in classwork at the University of Maryland. I will ensure that I seek help from my fellow students, weigh their opinions, and regard every perspective they present. Further, I will make use of teamwork to tackle tough classwork challenges. Coordination will be a gateway to getting better grades and achieving overall academic success.
