The research of Dr. Stephen Spates has been selected for the 2022 issue of Mind’s Eye, the university’s research publication.
His research delves into how people of different cultural and professional backgrounds can effectively work in teams.
The following is an excerpt from the story:
For a recent research project, he developed a case study about the challenges chaplains face in a team tasked with planning a new hospice-style hospital wing. For instance, chaplains’ opinions may be discounted since chaplains are not medical personnel.
This scenario is the basis for a 2020 published article, which also offers strategies and tactics for overcoming challenges like this in a health care team.
“We see a battle happening as the group struggles to accept and value the traditional medical voices and others equally,” Spates said.
To succeed in these transdisciplinary teams, Spates’ article suggested members take time to build the team before tackling the task. This involves building trust and generating understanding about why each person was selected for the team.
Congratulations, Dr. Spates!