Presentations/Activities on Gracious Professionalism?

[deanmorell]

Hi Folks,

With my school’s renewed mission to develop students holistically, and to have them value the importance of service learning, I’d like to do an all-team session on gracious professionalism. I was going to show some case studies and have students reflect, but before I start developing materials, I was wondering if there were any curricular materials already established that emphasize gracious professionalism. Any materials, links, courses, etc., would be considered and greatly appreciated.

Kind regards,

DM

[Billfred]

I haven’t seen slide decks on this, but I’ll say this: lots of people have their own perceptions on the matter, so I say start with Woodie Flowers’ writings and talks. Every 4901 season began with a slide of the following stolen from the game manual, and it would be read aloud verbatim:

@Dr. Woodie Flowers

FIRST celebrates high-quality, well-informed work done in a manner that leaves everyone feeling valued. Gracious Professionalism seems to be a good descriptor for a big part of the ethos of FIRST. It is one of the things that makes FIRST different and wonderful.

Gracious attitudes and behaviors are win-win. Gracious folks respect others and let that respect show in their actions. Professionals possess special knowledge and are trusted by society to use that knowledge responsibly. Thus, gracious professionals make a valued contribution in a manner pleasing to others and to themselves.

In FIRST, Gracious Professionalism means that we learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. We try to avoid leaving anyone feeling like they have lost. No chest-thumping barbarian tough talk, but no sticky sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, pride and empathy comfortably blended.

[deanmorell]

Thanks! If you happen to spot any good material on the subject, please post here! TIA