What can be done to foster cooperation during group meetings?

Assigning roles and responsibilities is an effective strategy to foster cooperation during group meetings because it helps clarify expectations and encourages participation from all members. When individuals are given specific tasks or roles, they are more likely to feel a sense of ownership and accountability for the group's outcomes. This also enables members to contribute their strengths and skills, enhancing teamwork and collaboration.

Clear roles can help minimize confusion about who is responsible for what, leading to a more organized and efficient meeting. Moreover, when everyone understands their part in the group dynamic, it creates a supportive environment where members are motivated to cooperate and work together towards a common goal. Having defined roles encourages each participant to actively engage and collaborate, leading to better communication and synergy among group members.

In contrast, promoting a competitive spirit, scheduling longer meetings, or limiting discussions to only one topic may discourage open dialogue and collaboration, as they can create tension, lead to disengagement, or stifle the opportunity for diverse ideas to emerge.