Chapter 6 Group discussion

Section 1: Working together Discussion: A cooperative exchange of information, opinions, and ideas. One of the best methods for solving problems Group members bring all sides of a problem to the surface for consideration. Having the Right Attitude for Group Work: Open minded Interact in a cooperative manner, not competitive

Section 1: the right attitude Discussion is dynamic You can change your minds as you hear new ideas Discussion requires patience Can seem slow since each member is allowed to speak Discussion is the basis of our Democratic system Find ways to solve problems through sharing information, ideas, and feelings

Section 1: Discussion Formats Panel Discussion Relatively informal discussion that takes place in front of an audience Members sit facing the audience Members usually talk to each other Symposium Present opposing points of view Invited experts deliver short speeches on a subject After being introduced, each speaker stands and faces the audience

Section 1: Discussion Formats Town Hall Meeting Dates back to early American colonies Colonists would assemble in a large hall A vote usually taken to settle the issue

Section 1: factors for success Group Size Five to Seven members is best for a group Less than Five: Lack the diversity needed for spark Groups of Seven to Ten: Discourage quiet people from talking More than Ten: A few people talk, most people just listen

Section 1: Discussion Formats Seating Arrangements If someone takes a central position (at the head of a U-shaped group of chairs), or in the front of a row, talk usually flows to or through that person. If the group is in a circle, everyone can easily look at one another and talk flows from one person to another. People who sit in groups tend to feel more satisfied with their participation

Section 1: Discussion Formats Cohesion Cohesion: when members have respect for each other, share similar values, and look to each other for support If belonging to a group is important, members will be more cohesive Group membership offers: a chance to socialize, feel a sense of purpose, remain loyal, etc…

Section 2: Group Problem Solving Define the problem: Understand the problem Establish what problems will not be considered Establish Criteria for a Workable Solution: Decide on Criteria, a set of standards that the solution must meet.

Section 2: Group Problem Solving Analyze the Problem: Break the problem down into smaller pieces for closer inspection Suggest Possible Solutions Brainstorming: Bombard the problem with fresh ideas The obvious solution is not always the best No solution should be accepted until several have been proposed, examined, and compared

Section 2: Group Problem Solving Evaluate Each Solution and Select the Best One Refer back to criteria Make a careful comparison Determine which solutions meet the criteria Suggest Ways for Testing or Carrying Out the Solution Make sure the solution is practical Give your solution a quick test, if possible

Section 2: Managing Conflict Conflict as a Positive Force Constructive Conflict: Members use their differences to discover the best ideas. By analyzing different ideas, groups may become less committed to the status quo Disruptive Conflict Polarizes members Nitpickers, Fence Setters, Wise Crackers, Superior Beings, Dominators (pp. 154-155)

Section 3: How to Contribute to a discussion Active Listening Even if you do not have anything to say, you are still participating Be impartial Be attentive and Courteous Preparing for Discussion Take time to review notes, research, and think about the problem beforehand Contributing as a Leader Do not wait for a leader to emerge Designate or elect a leader

Section 3: How to Contribute to a discussion Getting the Meeting Started Questions for Fact: Recall information that touches on the business at hand Questions of Interpretation: Asks for opinions on what the information means Questions of Evaluation: Ask members to agree or disagree with possible solutions and make judgments

Section 3: How to Contribute to a discussion Keep the Discussion Going Good leaders work to see that everyone participates Leaders provide occasional paraphrases Set an example Recognize and praise group members contributions Avoid negative nonverbal signals.

Section 3: How to Contribute to a discussion Close the Discussion Be alert that the signs that the group is ready to quit (repeating, take up minor points, or wander from the question) Reach a consensus, or a nearly unanimous agreement Do not give up argument or consensus too easily Avoid “Group Think”, or going along with the group and abandoning your own ideas and beliefs

Group Notes Quiz Get out a sheet of paper. Put your name, class period, and date in the upper right hand corner. Number 1-10

Group Notes Quiz 1. What is a cooperative exchange of information, opinions, and ideas? 2. A relatively informal discussion in front of an audience where members talk to each other is a __________ discussion. 3. The type of format that dates back to early American colonies is ______ ______ ______. 4. A groups size of ____ to ____ members is best

Group Notes Quiz 5. If the group is seated in this shape, everyone can easily see each other and talk flows easily between members. 6. What word describes when members have respect for each other, share values, and look to each other for support? 7. What is the 1st step in group problem solving? 8. Bombarding the problem with fresh ideas is known as __________

Group Notes Quiz 9. This type of conflict polarizes group members. 10. T or F. Good leaders work to see that everyone in the group participates?

Group Notes Quiz -Answers 1. Discussion 2. Panel 3. Town Hall Meeting 4. 5 to 7 5. Circle 6. Cohesion 7. Define the Problem 8. Brainstorming 9. Disruptive 10. True