Small Group Dynamics in Remote Field Camps of NZ and Antarctica

• Main Author: Brabyn, Mark
• Format: Other/Unknown Material
• Language: English
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: South Pole; Antarc*; Antarctica; Auckland Island; South pole
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10092/14122

This report gives the results of a survey on group dynamics of 40 participants with varying experience who have been involved in field work in remote locations. These results showed no significant differences between leaders and non leaders or between productive and enjoyable factors. However all groups did rank ‘considerate’ as the most critical necessary characteristic and ‘dominating personality’ as the most critical irritating behaviour. ‘Tolerance of others’ was the most critical factor for enjoyable fieldtrips. Further research is required with a larger number of participants, to confirm these trends. Four case studies of interesting group dynamic situations are outlined: Adventure Tourism Guiding, South Pole Expeditions, Raoul Island, and Auckland Island South Right Whale project. These are based on interviews with key people and personal experience. Common factors from the survey and the case studies are discussed and recommendations for improving group dynamics in the field are made.