Introduction

Communication is vital for the success of our relationships. Despite this, few understand what communication is and how it works. Understanding the communication process can allow us to build and maintain successful relationships with others. Also, learning to manage communication processes can provide us with powerful tools for turning conflict with others into mutual growth opportunities.

In this discussion, we will approach two related topics: communication and conflict, as follows:

• Define communication to lay the foundation for helping us manage the communication cycle to build and maintain positive relationships.
• Consider how communication can help manage conflicts that usually arise when we work and live with others.
• Explore how conflict can have positive and negative impacts on our relationships and performance
• Compare different approaches for handling various kinds of conflict.
• Uncover strategies for enhancing individual and team performance and strengthening relationships.

Team Hachi Project

Adapted from "Assessing the viability of team learning with remedial students in a lecture-based Japanese higher education culture" (Duncan, 2013), this is a script from a workshop for introducing team communication and conflict approaches for improving student performance in Japanese higher education environments but is equally effective in any team-based environment. Called the Team Hachi Method, this integration of small group learning models and practices offers a framework that students and faculty can adapt to build dynamic learning systems that engage individuals in mutual growth by approaching group learning as a game, improving student satisfaction through enhanced performance.