Class Three: Reflection on Simulation

Day one of the simulation was interesting because I have never been at the table of a contract negotiation: and, I was really uncertain what to expect when laying ground rules. Our inexperienced team was trying to demonstrate flexibility by not having too many ground rules, or rigid ground rules. In hindsight we really should have been more concise. When addressing how items are to be proposed and counter proposed, I think a template would have been more satisfactory. That way each side had the same format, and no one was guessing what article or section was being addressed. Also, having the one spokesperson ask the clarifying questions and caucusing then coming back for additional questions would have probably worked better. Typically I hate simulations and role playing, it typically seems over contrived and those with the most acting ability dominate the process. However, in this simulation I am definitely more engaged. It has made me aware that I need to volunteer and discuss within my districts leadership to be more actively involved with our next negotiations!