I really think that it will arise regardless of how you structure the environment, human nature being what it is. But I do believe that you can structure the roles to rotate the alpha role and encourage the students to allow a differentiation of roles for each student. Structure the activities so that the student can play multiple roles: A,B,C etc. Discuss why each student should be able to experience each activity prior to the activity.
I will occasionally throw in the "soft skill" of non-verbal communication. In other words, I instruct the team to complete what they are assigned, without speaking to one another. I find most of my alphas talk over their teammates and this is simply not possible when no one is speaking.
Also, it has been my experience that as students are watching one another for nonverbal clues, they tend to be more respectful of other's attitudes. It's a side-effect I often point out to them and then ask why they think it happens! (anyone know???)
Aleatha,
I agree & it may depend on what you are trying to communicate. There may be times when you want an "alpha" situation so this can be pointed out to the individual if I'm trying to teach self-awareness & the value of listening to others' opinions.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Darren,
To avoid an alpha situation you need to choose a team game in which all members have the opportunity to share their input and participate. A great game would be one similar to Family Feud where every member gets an opportunity to voice their individual responses and also allows the team to also work together.
elizabeth,
this is a great idea & also helps each student see how they tend to react under pressure both as a leader & a team member.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I like to create games where each person has a specific amount of itmes that they are in charge of, but the whole class has to work together or take turns to get the "puzzel" solved in a set amount of time. This helps to aleviate any "alpha" situation and encourages everyone to participate.
Darren,
this is definitely a challenge. You may have to intervene & somehow make sure everyone has the opportunity to share & discuss.
Dr. Ryan Meers
