Cmst 2064 Midterm Study Guide
Midterm Study Guide
Fall 2012
Chapter 1: Introduction to group communication 1. *Explain the six characteristics of small groups. a. Small number of people – 3-9 people, minimum number of people will allow you to achieve a task effectively b. Common purpose or goal – all group members are working toward the same goal c. Common experiences/sense of belonging d. Interdependent – we all affect each other e. Psychological bond – “us vs. them”; idea that we communicate to others that we are 1 together (insiders vs outsiders) Optimal size is 5 or 6 people (3-15) f. Interaction – communicating with each other 2. Know the difference between primary and secondary groups; know examples for each. g. Primary groups exist for social support and fellow ship; fulfill based need to be loved and belong. h. Secondary groups are groups that come together for specific goals; they reach the goal than disband.
Ex. Primary – friends, family
Ex. Secondary group – study group, problem solving group, decision making, therapy groups, committees
3. Be able to recognize the six characteristics of an effective group. i. Clear elevating goal j. Competent members k. Unified commitment – everyone takes on the same workload l. Collaborative climate – understanding environment m. Standards of excellence – set a goal that makes us work harder n. Principled leaders 4. Know the five tips to avoid in order to have an effective group. o. Distrust of other team members p. Fearing conflict q. Lack of commitment to the team r. Avoid accountability s. Lack of focus in achieving results i. The group is not keeping the goal in mind 5. What are the five characteristics of an effective group member? a. Experience i. Experience managing problems and issues ii. Those inexperienced must be willing to learn b. Problem
Fall 2012
Chapter 1: Introduction to group communication 1. *Explain the six characteristics of small groups. a. Small number of people – 3-9 people, minimum number of people will allow you to achieve a task effectively b. Common purpose or goal – all group members are working toward the same goal c. Common experiences/sense of belonging d. Interdependent – we all affect each other e. Psychological bond – “us vs. them”; idea that we communicate to others that we are 1 together (insiders vs outsiders) Optimal size is 5 or 6 people (3-15) f. Interaction – communicating with each other 2. Know the difference between primary and secondary groups; know examples for each. g. Primary groups exist for social support and fellow ship; fulfill based need to be loved and belong. h. Secondary groups are groups that come together for specific goals; they reach the goal than disband.
Ex. Primary – friends, family
Ex. Secondary group – study group, problem solving group, decision making, therapy groups, committees
3. Be able to recognize the six characteristics of an effective group. i. Clear elevating goal j. Competent members k. Unified commitment – everyone takes on the same workload l. Collaborative climate – understanding environment m. Standards of excellence – set a goal that makes us work harder n. Principled leaders 4. Know the five tips to avoid in order to have an effective group. o. Distrust of other team members p. Fearing conflict q. Lack of commitment to the team r. Avoid accountability s. Lack of focus in achieving results i. The group is not keeping the goal in mind 5. What are the five characteristics of an effective group member? a. Experience i. Experience managing problems and issues ii. Those inexperienced must be willing to learn b. Problem