As some of you know, I'm currently in an MBA program at UMUC. I've learned alot so far and that's helped my company and my customers.
There is one overarching issue in the program related to teamwork. We have a huge amount of social loafing in the teams. The overacheivers want to do a good job and work hard, while some of the folks are content to act busy, deliver something that is inaccurate or rudimentary, and then be first in line for the high-fives when the team gets an A.
One team member is now being called the "Loch Ness Monster." He pokes his head above water on rare ocassions to act like he's engaged, then dives to the bottom of the Loch until the project is turned in.
I'm sure other folks have Loch Ness Monster sightings at work or school. Or maybe more colorful nicknames...
Sasquatch? Waldo?
Waldo is good.
this, too, is good preparation for the world of work... unfortunately!
Scott Adams, of Dilbert Fame, has a whole section on these people in "The Way of the Weasel." Obviously, he thinks this type of individual is a species of weasel.
Well, Gordon - what's interesting is I've been in the business world for over 10 years and what some people call teamwork in the MBA program is grounds for having all your stuff in a box and an armed escort to the front door...