Group Work in a Youth and Community Setting

This essay will analyse the group process of group 1.This group was set up as a task group, to design a poster to advertise the set up of a new group. The group were given 15 minutes to design the poster. When the group first entered the room and read the task, the group started to focus on what needed to be done, the group progressed well however when the task started to get more involved, it was clear that some voices were being heard, and some being ignored. It would have been necessary at this point to introduce ground rules. However on reflection and given the direction that the group took it would have been a more productive step to introduce some basic ground rules as ‘’ groups run better when there is enough order and structure to protect and enhance the process’’ (Cloud H, Townsend S,J, 2003:137) it also provides a starting point for conversation to be developed, and the facilitator may be able to gage the needs of the group through developing discussion. (K Sapin 2008) When devising ground rules, the group should be involved. Ground rules can set the basis of how the group should act, and they also provide a core central value base to be observed (Shuman S 2005) it provides a platform of what is acceptable and what is not. So to involve the group gives a sense of ownership, and we know that this is vital for a group to engage and develop. Some basic ground rules can consist of Only one person at time talking Encourage full participation Keep discussion on topic, and focused Listen Respect Full attention required, at all times. Have fun Through introducing ground rules at this point, it would have set a standard of behaviour which is necessary for the group to progress and achieve the task. The goal would have been to get the group to commit to using them, and to get the members to set new expectations of how to interact with each other, this enables the group to share responsibility

References: Cloud H, Townsend S,J, 2003: Making small groups work: what every small group leader needs to know. Orange California published by Yates & Yates. Shuman S 2005, I.A.F. handbook of group facilitation:best practices from the leading organization in facilitation. San Francisco California: Jossey-Bass K sapin 2008 essential skills for youth work practice London sage Hunter D, et al 1996, The facilitation of groups Hampshire Gower publishing limited,) Harrison R & Wise C 2005 Working with Young People, London sage