Status and Hierarchy LO5106

Dr. Ivan Blanco (BLANCO@BU4090.BARRY.EDU)
Wed, 24 Jan 1996 16:43:36 -0500 (EST)

Replying to LO4797 --

I support John Woods' discussion on the use of titles that imply the
"subordinate-superior" relationship. I gave up on the use of these titles
that place people in roles that restrict them too msuch, and the hinder
open communication. I even call my students learning partners, and sit in
the same circle with so that the "level" is somewhat similar for all. I
had an experience years ago with the Caracas, Venezuela Fire Deprtment,
where they follow a paramiltar discipline. Ranks are important. In an
exercise where we were supposed to be creative in solving a number of
situation, the first attempts to get any creative suggestions where not
working at all. Then I asked all of them to get rid of their shirts
(where the ranks are indicated). After we were all just wearing our white
t-shirts (which is part of the uniform), then we started to function as a
group with true open communication and the ability to develop creative
solutions. I explained to them what happened at the end of the two-day
exercise.

Ivan

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