Test 3 Small Group

Group Decision Making

The process of choosing from alternatives after gathering information and considering the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Effective Decision-Making Elements

Components that lead to predictable patterns and better decisions

• Assess the present situation

• Seek input from each member 

• Identify what needs to be accomplished 

• Identify decision alternatives

• Review pros and cons of alternatives

• Select the best alternative

Brainstorming

A group activity aimed at generating numerous ideas and alternatives for solutions.

Pros and Cons Review

The evaluation of advantages and disadvantages of each alternative before making a decision.

Consensus

A decision-making method that emphasizes agreement among group members, often requiring in-depth discussion and compromise.

In-Group Expert

A knowledgeable member within the group whose expertise is relied upon for decision-making.

Out-Group Expert

An external authority who can make decisions but may limit group input and variety.

Ranking Alternatives

A method where group members rate possible alternatives, and the option with the highest average rating is selected.

Majority Rule

A decision-making process that is swift and efficient but can leave a minority unsatisfied.

Conflict Phase

A stage in group dynamics where members form opinions and confront disagreements about the group's task.

Reflective Thinking

A systematic process introduced by Dewey for defining, analyzing, and solving problems.

Force-Field Analysis

A tool used to identify and analyze driving and restraining forces affecting a goal.

SWOT Analysis

A strategic planning tool that identifies strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to a project or business venture.

Cause and Effect Diagram (Fishbone)

A visual tool for identifying potential causes of a problem, organized into categories.

T-Charts

A decision-making tool where pros and cons of alternatives are listed side-by-side for comparison.

Pilot Program

A small-scale test of a decision or solution before full implementation.

Ethnocentrism

The belief that one's own culture is superior to others, leading to potential miscommunication and bias.

Mindfulness in Collaboration

Conscious awareness of cultural differences that guides interactions within diverse groups.

HALT

An acronym for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired; states the conditions under which group members may not function effectively.

Barriers to Effective Group Problem Solving

Challenges such as lack of structure, poor communication, and negative attitudes that hinder a group's performance.

Action Chart

A tool outlining tasks, deadlines, and responsible members to organize group activities during implementation.

Virtual Group Experience

Refers to how group dynamics and engagement may differ in online settings compared to face-to-face interactions.

Tip Theory

McGrath's framework suggesting group functions depend on situational needs, interaction level, and performance requirements.

Random choice

sometimes groups become so frustrated that they make no decisions

Minority

may yell the loudest or threaten to create problems in the group unless they get their way

Problem consists of 3 components

1. Undesirable existing situation

2. Achieve Goal

3. Obstacles

Dialectical Theory

things to balance

 suggests that during communication there are often competing tensions pulling the conversation into multiple directions.

Spiraling Model

group goes over the same step over and over again

Punctuated Equilibrium Model

work in ways; During the first half of a group’s existence, group members may experience uncertainty and indecision about what to do or how to proceed

Multisequence Model

necessary steps for group following

Functional (elements)

Perform certain task requirements in communication

Perspective approach

Fisher describes this approach as providing “guidelines, a road map, to assist the group in achieving consensus. Is based on an assumed ‘ideal’ process.”

Flow chart

Step by step visual of process

Ideal Solution format

when group can’t agree

• identify ideal conditions

• evaluate alternatives

Single Question Format

focus on one key question

• helps with difficult issues

Creativity

generation, application, combination, and extension of new ideas

Innovation

Putting new ideas into action

Innovation Process

1. Idea Generation

2. Feasibility analysis

3. Reality testing

4. Implementation

Innovation Phases

1. Idea generation

2. Development

3. Finalization

4. Evaluation

6 Creative Problem Solving Model

1. Mess Finding

2. Data Finding

3. Problem Finding

4. Idea Finding

5. Solution Finding

6. Acceptance Finding

Mess finding

isolating a concern on which to work (identifying an issue)

Data finding

generating and selecting most date regards the mess (collect relevant info)

Problem finding

generating and selecting a statement captures “essence” of the problem (define the core problem)

Idea finding

generating and selecting best alternatives for solving problems (generate solutions)

Solution finding

use criteria to screen, select and support ideas selected in idea finding (select best solution)

Acceptance finding

generate ways implementing the solution and developing a plan for action (plan implementation)

Creativity Myths

1. Its mysterious and unlearnable

2. Only ”gifted” people are creative

3. It happens randomly

Barriers to Group Creativity

1. Premature Evaluation (fear of judgement)

2. Poor environment (uncomfortable space)

3. Too Many people (hard to engage everyone)

4. Poor timing (rushed deadlines or distractions)

5. Stinking Thinking (limited beliefs)

Principles for Team Creativity

1. Clearly defined problems

2. Create freedom and safe space

3. Listen to all voices, including minorities

4. Encourage new perspectives

5. Use structured methods

Creativity Techniques

1. Brainstorming

2. Nominal Group Technique

3. Delphi Technique

4. Electronic Brainstorming

5. Affinity Technique

Brainstorming

• Generate many ideas without judgement

• Build on others ideas

• Evaluate after idea generation

Nominal Group Technique

• Silent brainstorming first, then group discussion

• Great for introverts and reducing groupthink

Delphi Technique

• Anonymous idea sharing via writing/email

• Useful for remote teams or high-conflict groups

Electronic Brainstorming

• Typing/sharing ideas via computer

• More ideas, anonymity and piggybacking

Affinity Technique

• Ideas on sticky notes => sorted into categories

• Encourages movement and collaboration