Twentieth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

Operation common goal involves a dynamic activity in which participants partner with someone who looks visibility different from them. They receive two ropes and the instructor shows them how to interlock. They have five minutes to separate. If they do get out, they put their hands up and discuss three characteristics of their partner. Once that is over, we discuss the importance of working together, consider how they displayed teamwork and review how color, race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion was not a factor as they were working together for one common goal - getting apart. This activity sets the tone or breaks the ice in any meeting. During my research and own experiences, I have see where people were uncomfortable being matched with someone they don’t know. As they are interlocked together, there is unity. If anyone is able to successfully get out, I observe if any of the groups help another duo who is interlocked or if they watch them struggle and have them figure it out. I address all of these issues during the feedback session.