1. Chapter 6 Group discussion

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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…

9. 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.

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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 )

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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.

16. 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

17. 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

18. 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

19. 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 __________

20. 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?

21. 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