WorkinginSmallGroups

//Source: Woods (1994)//

A small group consists of 3 to 9 people working cooperatively together. Membership in the group may be assigned or selected, but for the greatest personal growth, it is best if you are assigned to the group. The more variety of background, experiences, preferred style of processing information, the richer and better the result. However that very variety will also breed conflict. This conflict will tear the group apart if you do not learn how to handle the group dynamics effectively.

All groups must have a chairperson. Research shows that a group with the weakest person acting as chair will outperform groups trying to function without a chair. The role of chairperson can alternate between individuals from meeting to meeting. In addition, group members can be assigned roles such as recorder, checker, encourager and elaborator.

(Original page by Mary Frangie)