Secondary Foreign Languages Dept. CFG Session 1

Topic: How can we create a more positive working environment in our department?
Facilitator: Heather Erguvanlı
Protocol: Chalk Talk
Expected Outcome: Solutions to problems in the work space

Results of the session:

2 Key Words: Respect and Positivity

Respect:

• If you have an issue with someone, find a place where you can speak in private.
• Details of own/others' private lives to be kept outside the department.
• If you have something to say, say it directly to the person concerned, not to others when the person concerned is absent.
• Mobile phones on 'Silent' mode.
• Make and receive mobile calls outside the department.
• Go over to the person you want to speak to and speak in muted tones.
• Arrange to have meetings in alternative locations...i.e. MUN Rm/Conference Rm.
• Answer students' queries in the lounge area, not at your desk.
• Do not allow student access to teachers' computers.
• Inform people when leaving documents on their desks.
• Offer to take turns to pick up printer cartridges.

Positivity:

• Support each other.
• Listen to colleagues' problems and offer solutions not criticisms.
• Be active listeners.
• Listen-think-give positive feedback/solutions.
• When something goes wrong, don't panic, focus on a solution, based on facts not individuals.

Respect for selves and others will create a tolerant and positive environment.

Extra Suggestions:

• How about airing the room 3-4 times a day or whenever necessary?
• As English teachers, how about speaking English in and outside the department?
• How about a department motto?...Something like, "All for one and one for all."