Chapter 19 Speaking in and as a Group This multimedia product and its contents are protected under copyright law. The following are prohibited by law: Any public performance or display, including transmission of any image over a network; Preparation of any derivative work, including the extraction, in whole or in part, of any images; Any rental, lease, or lending of the program.

A Small Group Is. . . . . . a collection of three or more individuals who interact with and influence each other in pursuit of a common goal.

Types of Groups Socially oriented group Task-oriented group Study group Problem-solving group Action group Work team Self-directed work team

Group Decision Making. . . Is a shared responsibility. Requires a clear understanding of goals. Benefits from a clear but flexible agenda. Is enhanced by open communication. Requires adequate information.

Steps to Problem Solving Define problem. Analyze problem. Determine criteria for optimal solution. Propose solutions. Evaluate proposed solutions. Select solution. Suggest strategies for implementation. Based on John Dewey, How We Think (Boston: Heath, 1910).

Responsibilities of Group Members Inform the group. Advocate personal beliefs. Question other participants. Evaluate ideas and proposals. Support and monitor others.

Responsibilities of Group Leaders Plan agenda. Orient group. Establish information base. Involve all members in discussion. Encourage openness and evaluation.

Responsibilities of Group Leaders cont. Secure clarification. Keep group on target. Introduce new ideas and topics. Summarize discussion. Manage conflict.

Group Presentations The Public Discussion The Symposium

Preparing the Group Presentation Brainstorm about the topic. Do some exploratory research. Discuss and divide topic. Research your specific area. Draft outline of your content area.

Preparing the Group Presentation cont. Discuss how information interrelates. Finalize presentation format. Plan introduction and conclusion of presentation. Prepare and practice. Rehearse and revise. Develop a team look.