Hixson Blog #6 - 

    In class this week, we had activities focusing on problem solving as a unit and a separate survey about leadership personalities. For the first half of class, we focused on Chapter 5 in our book which entails, "Problem Solving with Individuals." The class was split into groups of twos and every group was given a different task in which they had to work together to achieve a goal. One group had to build with play-doh, another (very lucky group) got to play super Mario, and in my group we had to create a story by alternating words. It was difficult in that it took a lot of effort to create a simple story. Michael and I did a good job and appeared to work well as a unit. This task was important because as peer mentors next semester, we will be called upon to problem solve with others and not just handle everything 'lone-wolf' style ourselves. 

     The second part of class was devoted to understanding different conflict management styles. I took a brief survey and after tallying my results, I was determined to be a collaborating conflict manager. This type of individual seeks win-win solutions where both parties are satisfied. This style works well in long-term relationships and when varying concerns are too important to be compromised. I feel this may be the best fitting conflict management style heading into next fall. My second highest score was accommodating. This means I have a tendency to shy away from conflict if I have no strong interests in the decision and mainly want to promote group harmony. I believe an accommodating conflict management style works well when trying to solve a lot of life's little problems. I feel it is best not to get too worked up or something if it isn't important to me.