Describe the function of the committee and the roles of those in attendance. Describe your observations of the interactions between members of the committee and determine whether the process used to arrive at decisions is a form of shared governance.

All members have equal voting rights in a model of shared governance. They are also encouraged to engage in discussion and debate. Although the chairperson can facilitate discussion and guide the committee to a decision, ultimately it is decided by the collective input of all members.

If the decision-making process of the committee is more top-down, and decisions are made only by one or a few people, it will not be considered shared governance. The input and participation from other members could be reduced in this instance, as the decision-making process might be more top down.

The function of a committee will be to accomplish a task or perform an activity. The role of each member of the committee will differ depending on its composition. The level of participation and collaboration of the members of the committee in making decisions will determine if it is shared governance. To determine whether it’s a form shared governance, you need to watch the interaction between the members of the committee as well as the process of making decisions.