Knowing Me, Knowing You: Self-Reflection and Understanding Diversity for Effective Teamwork—A LEGO® Building Activity

Abstract

Effective teamwork is a crucial transferrable skill for students’ learning experience during their studies and future careers. Understanding the making of effective teams, how teams differ from mere groups of individuals, and the potential value and challenges of diversity for team performance is essential for students as current and future team members, leaders, and creators. The LEGO® building activity at the heart of this exercise presents an interactive and engaging way to provide crucial insights and reflection opportunities concerning diversity and teamwork. This activity introduces participants to the value and challenges diversity can raise for teamwork. In addition, it encourages participants to recognize the importance of effective communication, having a common purpose and collective accountability, transparency and information sharing, and psychological safety and trust. The exercise was developed for international postgraduate business and management students in a face-to-face classroom setting. An alternative online activity is also presented.