Practical and concise, this text offers students specific techniques to make small group interactions more effective
and efficient.
Groups in Process continues to balance traditional and progressive approaches to teaching small group communication,
drawing together the best of current research and thought on leadership, problem solving, and conflict management.
Thorough and up-to-date, this text serves as a bridge between discussion-based texts and newer, interpersonal perspectives.
Its straightforward presentation translates theory into practice with a plenitude of real-world examples.
Appropriate Courses :
Designed for courses in Small Group Communication.
Features :
Emphasis on applied small group communication, particularly in the corporate context.
"Principles," highlighted throughout each chapter, focus in on key concepts and help students review the most
important material.
"Study Questions" at the beginning of each chapter give students a clear preview of the material to follow.
"Ideas for Discussion," "Suggested Projects and Activities," "References, and Suggested Readings" at the end
of each chapter, offer a wealth of resources for students to expand their knowledge of small group communication.
New To This Edition :
Features new sections on computer-assisted communication and evaluating Internet sources.
Includes integrated examples and relevant research on cultural diversity.
Offers new suggestions for teambuilding and asking questions in a supportive communication climate.
Updates the text to reflect current research and readings throughout.
Table of Contents
Preface.
1. Introduction.
Levels of Communication.
Small Group Communication Defined.
An Overview of Efficiency and Other Considerations in the Small Group.
Groups as Process.
2. A Systems Approach to Small Group Communication.
Groups in Process.
Fundamental System Concepts.
Small Groups as Open Systems.
Small Group Systems at Work.
Small Group Communication System Perspectives.
3. Goals and Roles in Small Groups.
An Overview of Goals and Tasks in Small Groups.
Two General Types of Group Goals.
Roles in Small Groups.
4. Communicating Effectively in the Small Group.
Discussion Attitude.
Defensive and Supportive Communication.
Asking Questions.
Group Cohesiveness.
Communication Networks.
Suggestions for Communicating Effectively in the Small Group.
5. Listening and Feedback in Small Groups.
Listening and the Small Group.
Feedback.
Feedback and Response in the Small Group.
Using Listening as Feedback to Reduce Group Conflict.
6. Problem Solving.
Sources of Problems.
Some Definitions.
Types of Problems.
Evidence and Reasoning: Essentials for Problem Solving.
A Systematic Approach to Problem Solving.
Sources of Information for Problem-Solving Discussions.
Brainstorming: Creative Solution Getting.
A Note of Caution.
7. Nonverbal Communication in the Small Group.
Physical Behavior.
Physical Appearance.
Vocal Behavior.
Territory and Personal Space.
Environmental Variables Affecting Group Discussion.
8. Leadership in Small Groups.
Approaches to Defining Leadership.
Leadership Competencies.
Complexity of Leadership.
Teambuilding.
9. Conflict Management and Resolution in Small Groups.
Types and Values of Conflict.
Groupthink.
Decision Making and Conflict Management.
10. Special Forms and Techniques for Small Group Communication.
Selected Public Discussions.
Selected Private Discussions.
Small Group Communication Strategies.
11. Planning and Conducting Meetings.
Types of Meetings.
Planning the Meeting.
Conducting the Meeting.
Evaluating the Meeting.
