COM 100 Final Exam - Small Group Communication

Group

a collection of individuals who come together for a specific purpose or shared interest. Members have individuals’ goals and responsibilities not necessarily aligned with each other. These are often short-term.

team

a more structured and cohesive form of a group, characterized by a higher degree of interdependence, coordination, and collaboration among its members. Team members work together towards a shared goal and have collective responsibility for achieving the goal. These are oftentimes more long-term.

least-sized group

group size should be the smallest possible while still functional and diverse

typical group size

3-12 people

homeostasis

concept of group balance

interdependence

means that all actions and reactions are related

synergy

the whole is greater than the sum of its parts

equifinality

multiple pathways leading to the same outcome

ex. various strategies or approaches to problem-solving can lead to the same solution

multifinality

the same initial condition can lead to multiple different outcomes based on various intervening factors

ex. implementation of a new communication method means that different members may experience varying effects on their communication skills, leading to different levels of success or engagement

preference for procedural order

the preference that there is orderly movement through situations and that things are clear and logical

four stages of group forming

forming, storming, norming, and performing

forming

the initial phase of group forming where the group first comes together, focusing on orientation and setting initial goals. This phase brings little progress.

storming

the phase of group forming where conflict arises as different ideas clash or power struggles emerge within the group dynamic

norming

the phase of group forming where the group develops cohesion, leadership changes from one teammate in charge to shared leadership, and trust is built

performing

the last phase of group forming where the group is ready to leave, causing significant change to the team structure, and the team is ready to deliver results

harmonizer

characterized by their empathetic nature and their ability to understand and validate others’ feelings. Often seen as peacemakers who use their communication skills to bridge gaps and ensure everyone feels heard and supported

facilitator

individuals who guide discussions and interactions within groups, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and effectively

record keeper

responsible for maintaining and organizing important documents and records

reporter

rely on a combination of hard and soft skills to effectively communicate with their findings and engage with audiences

leader

someone who inspires positive, incremental change by empowering those around them to work toward common objectives

isolate

a member who does not participate in group activities or discussions, which can lower the group’s morale and effectiveness

dominator

an individual who tends to dominate discussions, often speaking first and with authority, which can intimidate others and prevent them from participating

free rider

a member who does not contribute to the group’s efforts or tasks, often benefiting from the group’s work without making any effort

detractor

an individual who expresses dissatisfaction or negative views about the group or its activities

digresser

a person who strays from the primary focus to discuss something else during group work

socializer

an individual who is naturally inclined to engage with others, often making them feel included and valued. This can cause too much focus on social life rather than group work.

airhead

individuals who are perceived as lacking intelligence or common sense and are very unprepared or don’t help the group