ABSTRACT
Early years educators are expected to work as part of a team, and within this team clear communication is vital. This chapter considers why communication and teamwork are important factors for the early years undergraduate student, explains why teamwork is essential and examines theories that link theory to practice, developing skills and techniques for written and verbal communication. It explores various theories and strategies that assist early years undergraduate students in developing their knowledge and understanding of teamwork and effective communication. The chapter considers how the theory and strategies discussed link to the students developing skills and qualities, and how the theory relates to practice. Some of the theories and concepts explored include group formation and group dynamics, different roles people play within a team, emotional intelligence and how to manage one's own emotions and the emotions of others, and how to communicate and listen in an effective and active manner.
