Characteristics of Collaborative Teams

No matter what type of team your school has, you should become familiar with the collaborative team process. If your team is using collaborative decision-making, you will see these characteristics:

Shared purpose. All team members share the same “vision” or “mission.” There is a sense of purpose among team members.

Cohesiveness. A relaxed “atmosphere” exists with no obvious tensions. Team members treat each other with respect and feel a sense of “togetherness” within the group.

Competence. Each team member is competent at her job or in her discipline area.

Focus. Discussion is focused on the task at hand. If it goes off topic, someone brings the group back to the point.

Open discussion. Everyone listens and feels comfortable offering an opinion, encouraging others to share their thoughts too. Thoughtful questions are raised as important points to consider. Team members continually listen to and clarify what is being said and show interest in each others’ thoughts and feelings. Only one conversation is held at a time.

Open disagreement. Team members value other opinions understanding that differences of opinions are unavoidable and that differing thoughts lead to creative solutions. When team members disagree, they do so frankly without personal attacks. Interpersonal disagreements are quickly resolved.

Consensus. Most decisions are reached by “consensus” meaning general agreement with no strong feelings of opposition within the group.

Shared responsibilities. Tasks are assigned and responsibilities accepted and shared, as needed.

Good leadership. The team leader doesn’t dominate or demand that others defer to her. Leadership of the group could change from time to time as the subject or situation warrants.

On-going reflection. The team is reflective about its work occasionally reviewing its own operations.

Synergy. There is a sense of “synergy” among the team -- that what they do together has a combined impact greater than the sum of each individual’s efforts.

Adapted from Ralabate, P. (2002). Meeting the Challenge: Special Education Tools that Work for All Kids. Washington, DC: National Education Association. Reflect with your team:

• Why is a shared vision/goal important?

• How are you interdependent?

• What will mutual accountability look like?

• In what way are these characteristics new to you?

• How could UDL connect with your goal and your team?