Perceptions of Area of Expertise Teams

Résumé du livre

This study investigates the perception of members of selected area of expertise (AOE) teams of Michigan State University (MSU) Extension related to perceived team effectiveness. A variety of concepts were tested to determine if members of the area of expertise teams in the study perceive a greater effectiveness by working in the team configuration. Team members responded to several independent variables in areas related to team formation and operations, leadership, commitment, creativity, personal and organizational support, research and Extension linkages, and recognition and reward. Personal characteristics related to length of employment, length of team membership, current or having served as a team cochair, and involvement in the Developing a Curriculum (DACUM) process were used in analysis to determine team effectiveness. Three models emerged through a multiple regression analysis. The models represent three dimensions that can predict the strength of relationship of the independent variables to team effectiveness. The individual contribution model shows three areas where a change in each would lead to greater team effectiveness: communication regarding the team, team member support, and individual contribution to leadership. The second model to review, the resource model, indicates two dimensions that would lead to greater team effectiveness: organizational support, and recognition and reward. The final model, team contribution, has two areas that would lead to greater team effectiveness: personal support of team and individual perception of leadership. Results in the study show a fairly consistent buy-in to the conceptual model of AOE teams. There appears to be collective agreement from individual team members who support the concept and agree that the formation of teams has increased communication and raised the level of expertise of MSU Extension staff members. For continual improvement and to maintain interest in the team goals, there must be constant and consistent work related to the recognition of team members and the contribution they make to the team. The organization, as well as the individual teams, will find tremendous benefit by investing the time and energy it takes to watch, listen, and celebrate successes achieved by teams on behalf of the organization.