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A.W. Lukens
and
Oxana Trotsenko
Our ability to cultivate and lead cross-functional collaboration strongly depends on our level of self-awareness. In this course, you will develop an understanding of basic cross-functional collaboration concepts and definitions, create a leadership self-awareness profile, and learn how to navigate and manage four most prevalent collaboration dynamics.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hzzwi/fundamentals
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction
In this module, you will be introduced to a specialization roadmap so you have a clear map of the
course contents. In addition, you will learn what you will need to be successful in the course.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction
In this module, you will be introduced to a specialization roadmap so you have a clear map of the
course contents. In addition, you will learn what you will need to be successful in the course.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops self-awareness, which is core to collaboration
Examines collaboration as a process, which is useful for professionals
Taught by leaders in the field, which gives credibility to course materials
Utilizes a collaborative approach, which helps model effective collaboration
Requires prerequisites, which may not align with all schedules
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Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Foundational collaboration & self-awareness
According to learners, this course offers a solid foundational understanding of cross-functional collaboration, highlighting the critical role of self-awareness in leadership. Students appreciate the clear and concise introduction to collaboration concepts and the structured approach, including the practical frameworks for navigating common team dynamics. While many find the content valuable for immediate application, some note that the course might benefit from more in-depth case studies or hands-on assignments for a deeper practical experience, suggesting it serves as an excellent starting point rather than a comprehensive deep dive for seasoned professionals.
Good overview, but could use more hands-on.
"While the course provides a <span class='neutral'>decent theoretical overview, I felt it could benefit from <span class='warning'>more real-world case studies or practical assignments."
"It's a <span class='warning'>good starting point, but for deeper application, I believe it requires additional practice or supplementary resources."
"I found some sections to be <span class='warning'>a bit too abstract; I would have liked more opportunities for hands-on application to solidify the concepts."
Provides a clear base for collaboration principles.
"I found the <span class='positive'>Collaboration 101 module to be incredibly clear and concise, laying a great foundation for the rest of the course."
"The course offered a <span class='positive'>strong introduction to the core concepts of cross-functional work, which was exactly what I needed."
"It’s a <span class='positive'>well-structured course for understanding what collaboration entails, including the neuroscience behind it."
Offers actionable strategies for team dynamics.
"The section on <span class='positive'>four common collaboration dynamics gave me tangible strategies I could apply immediately at work."
"I appreciated the <span class='positive'>actionable frameworks for approaching challenging team situations that were presented in the course."
"Understanding <span class='positive'>how to navigate different collaboration dynamics was incredibly helpful and practical for my role."
Emphasizes personal leadership and insights.
"The focus on <span class='positive'>leadership self-awareness was unique and highly impactful; I learned so much about my own working style."
"Creating my <span class='positive'>leader self-awareness profile was a standout activity that provided deep personal insights."
"This course truly highlighted how <span class='positive'>understanding myself can significantly improve my collaborative efforts within teams."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Fundamentals of Cross-Functional Collaboration with these
activities:
Sharpening Communication Skills
Show steps
Refine your communication skills, including active listening, to enhance your ability to engage effectively in cross-functional collaboration.
Browse courses on
Communication Skills
Show steps
-
Practice active listening techniques, such as summarizing and asking clarifying questions.
-
Engage in role-playing exercises to develop your communication skills.
-
Seek feedback from others on your communication style.
Understanding Cross-Functional Collaboration
Show steps
Review the key concepts of cross-functional collaboration and its benefits to enhance your readiness for the course.
Browse courses on
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Show steps
-
Read the course syllabus and introduction module.
-
Research the definition and different perspectives of cross-functional collaboration.
-
Identify examples of successful cross-functional collaboration projects.
Self-Reflection on Collaboration Skills
Show steps
Engage in self-reflection to identify your strengths and weaknesses in collaboration skills.
Show steps
-
Take a self-assessment to evaluate your collaboration skills.
-
Identify specific areas where you excel in collaboration.
-
Pinpoint areas where you can improve your collaboration skills.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Collaboration Peer Review Sessions
Show steps
Engage in peer review sessions with other students to provide and receive constructive feedback on your collaboration projects.
Show steps
-
Form a study group or connect with other students taking the course.
-
Present your collaboration projects or plans to the group.
-
Provide and receive constructive feedback on the projects, focusing on collaboration aspects.
Development of a Collaboration Plan
Show steps
Create a comprehensive plan outlining strategies for effective collaboration in real-world scenarios.
Show steps
-
Identify the specific goals and objectives of your collaboration project.
-
Define the roles and responsibilities of each team member.
-
Establish clear communication channels and protocols.
Volunteering in a Collaborative Organization
Show steps
Volunteer your time to a non-profit or community organization to put your collaboration skills into practice.
Show steps
-
Identify a non-profit or community organization that aligns with your interests.
-
Inquire about volunteer opportunities that involve cross-functional collaboration.
-
Actively participate in collaborative projects and initiatives.
Attend a Cross-Functional Collaboration Workshop
Show steps
Participate in a workshop to enhance your practical skills and knowledge in cross-functional collaboration.
Show steps
-
Research and identify a relevant workshop on cross-functional collaboration.
-
Register for the workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
-
Apply the learned techniques and strategies to your own collaboration projects.
Participation in a Collaboration Challenge
Show steps
Join a competition or challenge focused on cross-functional collaboration to test your skills and gain valuable insights.
Show steps
-
Identify and register for a competition or challenge related to cross-functional collaboration.
-
Collaborate with a team to develop and execute a solution.
-
Showcase your solution and receive feedback from experts in the field.
Sharpening Communication Skills
Show steps
Refine your communication skills, including active listening, to enhance your ability to engage effectively in cross-functional collaboration.
Browse courses on
Communication Skills
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Practice active listening techniques, such as summarizing and asking clarifying questions.
- Engage in role-playing exercises to develop your communication skills.
- Seek feedback from others on your communication style.
Understanding Cross-Functional Collaboration
Show steps
Review the key concepts of cross-functional collaboration and its benefits to enhance your readiness for the course.
Browse courses on
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the course syllabus and introduction module.
- Research the definition and different perspectives of cross-functional collaboration.
- Identify examples of successful cross-functional collaboration projects.
Self-Reflection on Collaboration Skills
Show steps
Engage in self-reflection to identify your strengths and weaknesses in collaboration skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Take a self-assessment to evaluate your collaboration skills.
- Identify specific areas where you excel in collaboration.
- Pinpoint areas where you can improve your collaboration skills.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Collaboration Peer Review Sessions
Show steps
Engage in peer review sessions with other students to provide and receive constructive feedback on your collaboration projects.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a study group or connect with other students taking the course.
- Present your collaboration projects or plans to the group.
- Provide and receive constructive feedback on the projects, focusing on collaboration aspects.
Development of a Collaboration Plan
Show steps
Create a comprehensive plan outlining strategies for effective collaboration in real-world scenarios.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the specific goals and objectives of your collaboration project.
- Define the roles and responsibilities of each team member.
- Establish clear communication channels and protocols.
Volunteering in a Collaborative Organization
Show steps
Volunteer your time to a non-profit or community organization to put your collaboration skills into practice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a non-profit or community organization that aligns with your interests.
- Inquire about volunteer opportunities that involve cross-functional collaboration.
- Actively participate in collaborative projects and initiatives.
Attend a Cross-Functional Collaboration Workshop
Show steps
Participate in a workshop to enhance your practical skills and knowledge in cross-functional collaboration.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify a relevant workshop on cross-functional collaboration.
- Register for the workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
- Apply the learned techniques and strategies to your own collaboration projects.
Participation in a Collaboration Challenge
Show steps
Join a competition or challenge focused on cross-functional collaboration to test your skills and gain valuable insights.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for a competition or challenge related to cross-functional collaboration.
- Collaborate with a team to develop and execute a solution.
- Showcase your solution and receive feedback from experts in the field.
Career center
Learners who complete Fundamentals of Cross-Functional Collaboration will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Operations Manager
Operations Manager
In the role of Operations Manager, one must be able to build collaborative relationships across a number of departments and teams; including marketing, sales, and production. This course will teach you how to build those relationships, while also cultivating your leadership style to promote collaboration and productivity.
Change Manager
Change Manager
Organizational change requires a leader who can collaborate effectively across multiple functions. This course will help you develop your leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, building a solid foundation for your career as a Change Manager.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Managing the many components of a project requires a strong understanding of team dynamics and an ability to collaborate effectively across multiple departments and job functions. This course will equip you with these skills, while also providing you with the leadership skills necessary for success in a Project Management role.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
Cross-functional collaboration is a key component of Human Resources Management. In this role, you will be responsible for creating a positive work environment for employees across the company. The skills you acquire in this course will help you manage team dynamics and facilitate collaboration at all levels.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
To be successful in Marketing today, one must be able to work with diverse teams, including sales, design, and public relations. This course provides a solid foundation in working with and effectively leading cross-functional teams, preparing you for the challenges inherent to marketing.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Manager
The Information Technology Manager requires an intimate understanding of how every department in a company synergistically operates. By taking this course, you will learn to optimize these relationships, ensuring that your IT initiatives support and enable cross-functional collaboration.
Team Leader
Team Leader
Team Leaders will benefit greatly from the skills and knowledge acquired through this course. It will help you build strong teams, fostering cross-functional collaboration. The curriculum will help you cultivate a deep understanding of collaboration dynamics, necessary for managing your team and achieving project goals.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants must be able to form and lead collaborative teams, creating a network of resources to draw upon during the consulting project's duration. This course provides the knowledge and skills you need to be successful at both.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Effective Sales Management requires an ability to build and nurture relationships with clients, direct reports, and other teams within the company. This course will provide the tools you need to lead these collaborations, establishing a strong foundation for your sales management career.
Product Manager
Product Manager
To launch a successful product, Product Managers must be able to work effectively with design, engineering, and sales teams. This course can help you foster a culture of innovation and ensure that all teams feel empowered and engaged throughout the development process.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
In order to deliver optimal results, Business Analysts must be able to collect input and data from a multitude of sources and teams. The skills acquired in this course will help you build and nurture cross-functional relationships, making the data collection process much more efficient.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
In order to deliver the insights necessary for data-driven decision-making, Data Scientists must be able to translate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. This course can help you develop these communication and collaborative skills, making you a more effective Data Scientist.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts must be able to work with individuals from all levels of the company, understanding their business functions and how they interact with financial data. This course will help you develop the skills necessary for collaboration across all job functions, allowing you to deliver accurate and timely financial insights.
Community Manager
Community Manager
In order to thrive in the role of Community Manager, it is imperative that candidates display a high level of self-awareness and effective leadership abilities. This course will help you refine these traits while also providing the opportunity to hone your cross-functional collaboration skills. This course may be particularly useful in acquiring and managing collaborators across a wide variety of functions.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers are vital members of cross-functional teams. This course will help you build the leadership and collaboration skills necessary to work effectively with non-technical teams, ensuring that your technical expertise is translated into business value.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hzzwi/fundamentals
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Fundamentals of Cross-Functional Collaboration.
Provides a classic framework for personal and professional effectiveness. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to achieve greater success in all areas of their life.
Save
Provides a revolutionary new understanding of the role of mindset in success. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to cultivate a growth mindset and achieve greater success in their personal and professional life.
Provides a classic framework for understanding how new technologies disrupt established industries. It must-read for anyone who wants to learn how to stay ahead of the curve and avoid being disrupted by new technologies.
Save
Provides a fascinating look at the science of habit formation. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to change their habits and achieve greater success in their personal and professional life.
Provides a behind-the-scenes look at how Pixar Animation Studios creates some of the most successful and beloved animated films in the world. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create a more creative and innovative workplace.
Provides a practical guide to giving and receiving feedback in a way that is both honest and kind. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to build a more open and trusting team.
Provides a simple and effective framework for understanding the five dysfunctions that can prevent a team from being successful. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to build a more effective team.
Save
Provides a research-based framework for understanding what makes successful teams successful. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to build a more cohesive and productive team.
Provides a practical guide to using the Lean Startup methodology to create successful businesses. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to develop and launch new products and services more quickly and efficiently.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hzzwi/fundamentals
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Effort
4 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado System
Instructors
A.W. Lukens
Oxana Trotsenko
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Cross-Functional Collaboration. It's comprised of three courses:
- Facilitating and Leading Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Fundamentals of Cross-Functional Collaboration (viewing)
- Mastering the Art of Cross-Functional Collaboration
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