Agenda for Today

Definition of Small Group Systems approach to small group Leading group discussions

Introduction

to Class Leadership Project Sign up for a topic and meet group members

What is small group?

According to the textbook:

A

group of at least three but few enough members for each to perceive all others as individuals, share some identity or common purpose, and share standards for governing their activities as members

Definitions, Take 2

A small group is a collection of individuals, from 3 to 15 in number, who meet in face-to-face interaction over a period of time, generally with an assigned or assumed leader, who possess at least one common characteristic, and who meet with a purpose in mind. (Barker, Wahlers, & Watson, 2001)

Definitions, Take 3

A small group is two or more individuals in face-to-face interaction, each aware of their positive interdependence as they strive to achieve mutual goals, each aware of his or her membership in the group, and each aware of the others who belong to the group. (Johnson & Johnson, 1997)

Key Characteristics

Group goals Interdependence Interpersonal Interaction (face-to-face for technology mediated) Group structure Group identity Group size

What do groups do?

Three Dimensions
Task

Dimension

Content of groups activities

Relational

Dimension

Support Role and group identity development

Learning

Dimension

Knowledge transfer Process information

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Group as a System
System: a set of relationships among interdependent, interacting components and forces Variables of system

Input-Process

(throughput)-Output

What happens in group discussions?

Learn new information Share knowledge Clarify misunderstandings Extend or modify current knowledge Educate others

Moderators (facilitator) roles

Establish objectives (goals) Analyze participants Develop agenda Plan structure/format Organize contents Prepare relevant materials Facilitate discussion Create inviting and encouraging atmosphere
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Activities during Sessions

Presentation of information Facilitated discussion

Critique Clarify

questions Apply knowledge to real-life situations

Small group exercises (role play, game, buzz group, etc.)

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Agenda For Next Tuesday

Group Goals and Structure Introduction to Case study project

Meet

team members Start Mini assignment 1

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