Topic | Name | Description |
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Course Introduction | ||
Unit 1: Introduction to Group Communication | ![]() |
Read Chapter 10 for an in-depth discussion of group
communication and its functions. Pay close attention to the definition
of groups and teams. In this chapter, you will read about the formation
of groups, our roles in these groups, and how communication facilitates
production and decision-making. After reading the chapter, complete the
discussion questions and write definitions for the key terms listed at
the end of the chapter. These assignments will help prepare you for the
final exam. |
Read this chapter, starting with the chapter introduction. This chapter
reinforces basic concepts of group communication challenges as
encountered in the workplace. Attempt the exercises at the end of each
section as well as the chapter exercises in section 9.7. |
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These three videos give insight into how we communicate in small groups. In the first video, Alexandra Riecke-Gonzales and her students discuss the process of group communication and how technology has changed our notions of groups from face-to-face collections of people to group members connected by technology. In the second video, Carl Isaacson gives an overview of the components of group communication, and he leads the class in a discussion of the conflicts that can occur during group decision making. In the last video, Ryan Guy discusses the process of creative and critical thinking that assist or hinder successful group communication. These videos explain theories and models of group communication and give examples. Listen in particular for information about group development, group functions, and the applications of theory that make for successful group decision making. |
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This short video explains the stages of group formation and
group development. These include forming, storming, norming, and
performing. As you view this selection watch for the discussion of the
four types of roles members take on in groups. These include
task-oriented roles, social-emotional roles (relationship maintenance
roles), procedural roles, and individual roles (also known as
self-centered behaviors). |
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These two short videos explain the stages of group decision
making. The first explains the systematic model of
group decision making, or problem solving. The second discusses the
diamond model of group participation. Watch for the four
components of problem-solving, which include defining and analyzing
the challenge; determining measurement criteria; identifying solutions;
evaluating solutions; and selecting a solution. |
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Unit 2: Theories of Group Communication | This short article explains the nature of groupthink as a deterrent to participatory decision making in groups. |
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This article provides additional insight into the challenges created by the group decision process and provides tips for avoiding groupthink. |
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Unit 3: Conflict Management and Group Communication | This lecture explains a number of strategies group members may use in managing conflict that can occur when working in groups. It gives definitions of conflict and conflict management, and addresses types of conflicts along with possible outcomes of conflicts, including group member behaviors. |
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Unit 4: Small Group Communication in Action | Watch this video of a small group attempting to complete a class project about small group communication. Throughout the video, members of the group exhibit examples of positive and negative group behaviors as they attempt to employ a problem-solving model. As you watch the video, see how many principles from this unit you can identify. |
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