written reflection on Advocating in Small Group Communication.
ZOLANSKII
L7SmallGroupCommclass.pptAdvocating Effectively in Small Groups
*
*
How Can We Advocate Effectively in Small Groups?
*
Consider Function of Group
Accomplish specific task(s)
Evaluate & advise
Create art & ideas
Provide service & support
Promote social networking
Compete
Learn
Consider Your Role
- Formal Roles (specifically assigned to fulfill mission):
Leader/captain
Note-taker
- Informal Roles (not formally assigned but helps group function):
Humorist
Mediator
Nurturer
Administrator
Consider Cohesion
- _____________ Cohesion: Extent to which members come together toward same objectives; to build it:
Emphasize collective goals of group
Stay focused & acknowledge progress
Avoid dominating
Remind members of their value to group
- _____________ Cohesion: Level of positive regard members have for one another
Too much can lead to _________
Understand Group Process
(Tuckman, 1965)
- _________: figure out who will lead, develop goals
- _________: conflicts over who leads & gets roles
- _________: norms develop to govern expected behavior; group roles solidify, group identity strengthens
- _________: members use skills & knowledge toward goals; high interdependence, motivation, & clarity of tasks
- _________: disband; reflect on accomplishments & failures
Consider What Can Go Wrong
- Potential Small Group Challenges:
Don’t choose groups
Social Loafers
Anti-group roles (_______, ________, __________, _________)
Hidden agendas
Consider What Can Go Wrong
- Potential Small Group Challenges:
_______ Differences
_______ Differences
Social ostracism
Conflict
Create a Constructive Group Environment
- Establish clear ________
- Clarify individual members’ ___________
- Celebrate __________ of group members
- Encourage team unity/Defuse stress (humor, social outings)
- Respect others’ viewpoints & use each other’s strengths!
