Student Resources : Discussion Groups
Differences also characterize groups that are assembled for the purpose of a discussion. If there might be differences in a one-to-one situation, where there are only two people involved, there will certainly be differences in a situation where there are five, six, or seven. Some of the differences noted in the discussion of interpersonal communication are relevant here too.For example, males will typically have a more instrumental view of the group’s work, seeing the group as a means to get work done; females will typically have a more relational view that results in more attention being paid to how well the group is getting along and doing its work.
There are also differences in how people approach group work. Some, for example, are very procedural while others prefer to step back and consider matters philosophically. Clash is highly likely between people with these two orientations. More broadly, there are differences in communication style. Some people are dominant; some, contentious; some, relaxed; some, open. And these are just some of the “styles” researchers have identified.
The key is not modifying one’s approach or style. Rather, it’s recognizing that your way is not the only way and, then, being willing to work with others who do things just a bit differently than you do.
Another very important key is avoiding bad group behaviors and practicing good group behaviors.
Bad group behaviors include blocking progress, dominating the discussion, withdrawing from the discussion, seeking recognition, offering irrelevant personal disclosures, clowning around, and flirting.
There are six good group behaviors to keep in mind. The first three are tied to roles that researchers have determined are important—perhaps necessary—if a group is to succeed. These roles fall into three categories: task roles, procedural roles, and emotional support roles. So, first, try to perform some of the important task roles such as initiating discussion, contributing ideas, and clarifying what the group seems to be saying. Second, try to perform some of the important procedural roles such as regulating participation by restraining those who talk too much and drawing out those who talk too little and by keeping the group focused on the matters/s under discussion. Third, try to perform some of the important emotional support roles such as energizing the group when it begins to fall flat or supporting (not necessarily agreeing with) those who take a risk and offer controversial views.
The fourth and fifth good group behaviors are based on what research tells us about how communication proceeds in an effective group. We know that a discussion group will feature both task talk and social talk. The social talk may make your instructor nervous; however, it’s normal. However, social talk should not dominate. In fact, it probably will fade to very little when the group is fully engaged. So, social talk is important as the group is getting itself going, but can be a distraction when the group is in the throes of a discussion. A good group behavior then is to maintain an appropriate balance between task talk and social talk.
We also know that communication in a discussion group is usually directed to the group as a whole. It’s not directed to the leader; in fact, discussion groups often do not have leaders. It’s also not directed at one other—for example, your friend, who is sitting next to you. So, a good discussion group behavior is to try to direct almost all of your comments to the group as a whole.
The sixth good group behavior is paraphrasing what others have said before offering your views. So doing helps assure that everybody in the group understands what everybody is saying. So doing also helps a group build answers rather than end up with multiple views. Answers featuring such building tend to be richer ones.