They provide emotional and psychological support that reduces tension and reinforces what they are doing. In higher education, GVSU colleagues sometimes teach together or collaborate to create curricula, write articles or make presentations. Lively discussions and debates help add spice and provide food for thought. We can share ideas and points of views. Sometimes, we even change our own ideas.
Some people are better at it than others.
Interest in one's own subject matter, intellectual curiosity, striving to make and become better teachers and just plain enjoying someone else's expertise and company are all common traits of collegiality, according to Wochholz. Educators are moving toward the norms of collegiality found in other professions. As an intellectual, you have to want to learn. If you don't want to learn, then you're in the wrong business.