Understanding human communication

Chapter 8

This chapter’s discussion is about groups and their characteristics. Every group is made for certain purposes and it has its own way of operating. For instance, people can form groups to solve problems, social purposes and growth among other reasons. Most groups formulate goals and objectives to achieve. The individuals may also have personal goals besides those of the group. The success of the group is determined by how these two sets of goals interact. Another determinant of the group’s success is their rules, decisions, norms and interactions. Generally, subtle cultures mould a group’s operations.

There are different types of groups depending on the intentions of the group members. Students are likely to form a learning group. These students will meet and discuss subjects of their choice. The group could also entail doing class projects and other learning activities. People can decide to form problem-solving groups where they seek solutions for their problems. Other examples of groups are social and growth groups. Social groups consists of members who come together to perform social activities. Growth groups are people who are interested in learning topics related to personal growth.

Communication in a group is the one of the most essential things. It highly contributes to the success of the group. Since people are working towards common goals, they need to communicate their thoughts and ideas to each other. A group does not necessarily have to meet physically. They could use other means of communication like teleconferencing or through other social networks. The internet has made it convenient for people to communicate from different locations. It saves time and it is convenient in case of urgency. A group with effective communication is able to operate smoothly because all members coordinate.

This chapter teaches groups on adopting good characteristics in their groups. This highly contributes to the success of the group. Many groups are failing because they have the wrong characteristics. For instance, a group may have poor communication hence the members are uncoordinated. Such members will have trouble in achieving their goals and objectives. These properties are applicable to any type of a group people would like to form. Before people form a group, it is important to learn properties of an effective group. They will avoid inappropriate traits and only focus on the excellent characteristics.

Chapter 9

This chapter discusses about solving problems in groups. There exists different ways of forming groups for solving problems. Although it is advisable to solve problems in groups, not all problems should be solved in groups. When people are working in a group, each member should maintain an atmosphere of cohesion and good relationship with each other. A group should have a leader who coordinates the activities of the group. A group leader’s effectiveness is defined by the group’s performance. Therefore, he or she is required to use appropriate leadership styles.

There is an approach with six steps, which leads to the success of solving problems in a group. The first step is identifying the problem and establishing both individual and group goals. The next thing is analyzing the problem by researching about it and understanding it fully. Brainstorming solutions is a wise strategy when solving a problem in a group. After brainstorming, select the most appropriate solution and evaluate whether it is applicable. After agreeing on the best solution, implement it and follow up the results.

Some of the benefits of solving problems in groups is the problem is solved faster than when it is solved by an individual. Group members combine their efforts and suggest solutions. Since all of them have different abilities, they will come up with diverse suggestion for the problem. Group work also makes the members learn a lot from each other. They will use the knowledge in future when the problem arises again. Other benefits are accuracy in solving the problem. The group members may consist of some professionals in the problem. They will guide the rest of the members.

Group members need to maintain a positive relationship among themselves. For them to work effectively, they will have to relate well. The leader of the group has responsibility of maintaining these relations. He or she could preside over the differences among the members. Dispute and disagreements among members will hinder them from working together and thinking rationally. Communication is a major key in maintaining good relationship in the group. The members should be encouraged to be open-minded and express any idea or thought. This will stop them from holding grudges or any negative attitudes towards others.

These two chapters are highly applicable in real life. They teach readers how to work in groups and their importance. People learn how to incorporate effective communication in group work, as it a significant element of success. Some people have tried to use groups for various reasons but failed because of some mistakes. These chapters enable readers to identify mistakes done in their own groups and correct them. The six-step approach is vital for group members who are unaware of the approach to use for their problem. Learning about groups inspires individuals who believe in working on their own whereas they can team up with other members.