Alpha vs Beta Group Class Activity

In class, we had an activity where the class was separated into two groups. One being the Alpha Group (my group) and the other was the Beta Group. Each group was put into separate rooms and given instructions about their culture. In my group, we were told about the importance of children and physical contact as it was the focal point behind the interaction. The children were the leaders in conversation and initiated people into the conversation by a touch on the shoulder. Failure to follow these rules would result in penalties and even total exclusion from the group. Playing the chip game was less about winning chips but more about the interaction itself.

In the Beta group, it was completely different. Where we valued physical interaction they were more focused on trade and personal gain. As a scout, I went into their culture completely blind to their customs and had to learn through trial and error. I quickly learned their language relied on the repetition of certain words as well as the initials of your name. I quickly picked up on trade and managed to make a few deals myself.

In conclusion, this group was a very interesting one as it modeled perfectly the different culture clashes that we have in our world. Being able to adapt and understand each other's customs and belief systems is what will allow us to work together and succeed.