Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 1 Chapter 12 Making Observations and Giving Feedback Feedback Information about quantity or quality of groups work Assessment about group effectiveness Evaluations of members performance Generated by the group for the group Serves as an error detection device
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 2 Why is Feedback Needed? Feedback helps members understand how their group works and how to make it work better Feedback overcomes attribution bias General feedback if positive Specific feedback if negative Personal responsibility if successful Deny personal responsibility if not successful more
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 3 Why is Feedback Needed? Helps group function more effectively Decreases opportunity for social loading Enhances member identification with group Positive feedback Enhances member satisfaction Creates belief that the group is competent Sets off positive spiral
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 4 Levels and Types of Feedback Levels of Feedback Task and procedural Relational Individual Group Types of Feedback Descriptive Evaluative Prescriptive
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 5 Observing the Group Audiotaping or videotaping the group Only for use by group members Focus on the group, not individuals Interaction diagram Who talks to whom Analyze the communication network Look for subgroups
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 6 Starting a Group Feedback System Ease group into the feedback process Explain the concept and benefits of feedback Be a role model Emphasize positive and constructive feedback Set aside meeting time for feedback
Copyright c 2006 Oxford University Press 7 Giving Feedback Strive for awareness, not blaming Should be motivational Focus on communication skills, not personalities Give specific examples Dont assume your view reflects others views All members should participate in the process