Mohamed El-Gafy & Keith Rahn, Technology
Exploring the Effect of Team Leaders who are Autonomous Learners on Enhancing Team Learning in Construction Management Classes (El-Gafy/Rahn, Powerpoint)
In this session we will report on a study designed to explore the impact of team leaders who are autonomous learners on team learning processes in construction management classes. Research has demonstrated that shared knowledge and beliefs influence team behavior and reduce performance errors (Stout et al., 1999). This study explores how team leaders with the characteristics of autonomous learners (desire to learn, personal initiative, resourcefulness, and persistence) affect the overall team learning process. The investigators employed a qualitative research design to gain a comprehensive understanding of the autonomous learner and other team members within the context of team learning. They expected improvement in the team performance when an autonomous learner is assigned as a team leader. The study also yielded insight into individual learning as it relates to team learning. This can help instructors assign better teams, which fosters student creativity and growth.
