Comm 3411: Intro to Small Group Communication

Mid-term

16 cards   |   Total Attempts: 182
  

Cards In This Set

Front Back
1. What are the elements of small group communication?
-3-12 people - Share a common purpose or goal - Feel sense of belonging - Exert influence on one another
1. What is distinction between teams and groups?
-Team goals are clear and specific -Teams have clearly defined team member responsibilities -Rules/expectations are clearly spelled out -Teams develop a clear way of coordinating efforts
1. What are characteristics of an effective team?
a. Clear goal b. Good structure c. Competent members d. Unified commitment e. Collaborative climate f. Standards of excellence g. External support/recognition h. Principled leadership
4. Name five advantages of working in small groups.
More information Stimulate creativity Remember discussion More satisfied with decision Better self understanding
Name four disadvantages of working in small groups.
Pressure to conform : groupthink Individual may dominate discussion Members rely on others to do work – Social loafing Takes more time
What is a primary group? Give two examples.
Fulfill basic needs to associate with others Family Friends
What is a secondary group? Give five examples.
Problem solving Study groups Therapy groups Committees Focus groups
How does one become a competent small group communicator?
Define problem Analyze problem Identify criteria Generate solutions Evaluate solutions Maintain task focus Manage interaction Manage conflict Maintain climate
1. How does one build a theory?
Observe a phenomenon Witness repeated pattern Develop explanation
1. What is the definition of theory?
Way of binding together multitude of facts so that one may comprehend them all at once
1. List and explain the two functions of theory. Explanation
Use theory to explain occurrences Make predictions about things that might occur in future
1. What is the Social Exchange theory?
When rewards outweigh the costs, the person will do it
1. What are the different elements of the "system" in Systems theory? Explain each element.
Openness to environment: interaction and climate Interdependence: cohesiveness Input variables: funds, tools, knowledge, purpose, relationships Process variables: procedures to reach goals Output variables: decision making to personal growth
1. What does Symbolic Convergence theory advocate? Fantasies & stories
-shape group identity/ culture -influence dynamics à norms, roles, decision making - result in collective consciousness
Explain Structuration theory
Use previous experience to make rules for future groups