Graduate Attribute one: Teamwork

Teamwork is arguably one of the most important attributes that I have developed during my studies. It has allowed me to develop strong communication skills and a knowledge of how to interact in group situations. The University of Ballarat (2005, p.1) states “Many occupations rely upon teamwork and group participation as a mainstay of everyday working life. People need to collaborate on group activities in order to achieve collective goals of their organisation”. These skills have served me well in group assignments as well as when working within the school context.

I received a written reference from Brodie Porter, a Year Three teacher at Coolum State School which stated “Nick has demonstrated a strong ability to develop professional relationships with teaching staff and students. He has supported and contributed towards curriculum planning and engages the whole school community by assisting with extra-curricular sporting activities.” During my time at Coolum State School I was deeply involved with the Year Three teaching team which encompassed six different classes. This allowed me to work as part of a team towards the common goal of providing the best possible opportunity for students to achieve learning outcomes.

The Queensland College of Teachers describe professional standards for teachers. Standard nine discusses that teachers need to contribute effectively to professional teams. Teachers actively contribute to a range of school-based and other professional teams to enhance student learning, achieve school objectives and improve the teaching and learning process (Queensland College of Teachers, 2006). In a written reference from Debbie Quirk, Year Level Coordinator she states "Nick has contributed professionally to the entire year level, he has shared excellent ideas, resources and skills. His ‘Give Me 5’ behaviour management strategy and poster has been adopted throughout the school". If a teacher is unable to develop the graduate attribute of teamwork they would be unable to contribute and work effectively in the school environment. They would struggle to develop relationships with peers, and more alarmingly, with their students.

Through sharing ideas and working autonomously in a team context I have been able to be a valuable asset in any team that I has worked with. In the course Principles of University Learning, my lecturer (J.Bull, personal communication, 2009); indicated that the group presentation was to a very high standard and it was evident that the team worked very efficiently together. The teamwork skills that I incorporate to a high level in all areas are due to him developing and refining the CQUniversity attribute of teamwork to a graduate level.