IFT and NEA

It has been interesting to see how far we have come since the first day of the simulations. We did not seem to build the trust at first, but it came as we began to discuss the proposals. We all talked about the fact that we all wanted what was best for the students. The relationship building that occurred through the process became more important as the proposals and counter proposals were brought forward for discussion. Through this process, I have seen how important trust and relationship building are. Even in the simulation, many of us became passionate about what was proposed. Many times one group or the other would ask why something was requested or what the justification was for the request. It is interesting to hear possible scenarios about proposals and hear why proposals could be construed in different ways. It is so important to make sure that the negotiation process does not cause the relationships to deteriorate as a result of becoming so passionate about an issue that you forget to listen. Listening is one of the MOST important aspects of communication and yet, one of the hardest things for many to remember to do. It will interesting to see the final copy of the TAed items in the contract and make comparisons as to how far we have come from the first day.

The speaker from IFT was very interesting. It was great to be able to ask our questions and get immediate feedback. It was interesting to hear the differences between the IFT and NEA. The speakers and the simulation have both helped me to understand the whole process better and to see what unions can do in the process of collective bargaining. It was also good to pick apart the statement and see the different ways the wording could be interpreted. It reminded me of the story of the blind men and the elephant. They could not see and each interpreted what they touched to describe in completely different ways what the animal looked like to them. As I mentioned to a couple of classmates and Dr. Closen, when we discussed legislation and how unions may support different candidates, I called my husband to ask him a few questions over lunch. It is nice to have the "speed dial" to a legislator and be able to ask what has “really” happened in certain situations.