I have just completed another gruelling week of teaching and talking complexity to various groups, or should I say 'tribes'.

It is quite amazing (even though I have been doing this for sometime) how group dynamics impact the learning environment, enjoyment and teaching approach of me and others. What was so interesting was the complete difference in group learning, enjoyment and dynamics each time I taught. Some loved it, others hated it, and many wondered what the 'heck' was it all about!!

The issue is how group dynamics impact the learning environment, enjoyment and teaching approach. For the Complexity method to work the group must be able to share experiences, to provide feedback, to pool ideas, to generate insights, and provide an arena for analysis of experiences. For it will be the members who provide a measure of support, reassurance and change from traditional thinkers to complexity agents. So why is it that many find the Group discussion problematic, as it is a very effective learning method.

Some members are active, dominant(!) participants while others are more withdrawn and passive. Each damaging the learning process. Whilst some want method, theory and tools…… (which I don’t give!!) and others experience on which to base their thinking (which never happens effectively!!), every time as a deliverer of this new message, I always feel as 'if'.... I should have done more, better, or different......?

I understand sometimes that group members are there not out of choice and is sometimes a little un-interest in complexity importance and relevance of complexity in their business, whilst others feel superior in subject, knowledge or experience simply to talk above or over any member, including the ‘lecturer’……why? Isn’t the wise person the one who listens, rather than confirm what they know by talking all the time!?

Communication within a group deals with the spoken and the unspoken, the verbal and the non-verbal, the explicit and the implied messages that are conveyed and exchanged relating to information and ideas, and feelings. Why not have fun? Or just not sit there and have manners and not spoil it…OR go back to work!

Hehe....... life is so messy!

END (of rant...)