questions they need to answer and search for additional information to answer them.
Some members may be assigned to conduct library or online research about the
problem, others may interview experts, and still others may conduct surveys to gather
information from target groups. The information gathered by group members should
help the group answer key questions about the nature of the problem.
During the information gathering and analysis step, group members should be
encouraged to share information that is new or contradicts the sentiments or
preferences expressed in the group. A group that is willing to consider new and
unexpected information will more deeply analyze the problem and, therefore, will
likely come to a more effective solution.
Arriving at a good solution depends on having a wide variety of possible solutions to
choose from. Many groups fail to generate solution ideas because they criticize the
first ideas expressed; this discourages members from taking the risk to put their ideas
out for the group to consider. One way to encourage everyone’s ideas is to use the
technique of brainstorming. Brainstorming is an uncritical, non-evaluative process of
generating possible solutions by being creative, suspending judgment, and combining
or adapting ideas. It involves verbalizing and recording all ideas that come to mind
without stopping to evaluate their merits. To ensure creativity is not stifled, no solution
should be
ignored, and members should build on the ideas shared by others. REJ: Please see the
section “Systematic Problem Solving” for more information.
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Answers will vary. As with any communication skill, group communication can
improve over time based on practice, reflective assessment, and revision.
Group dynamics is the way a group interacts to achieve its goal. Effective groups
periodically stop to evaluate how their interactions affect what they are accomplishing
and how members perceive themselves and others. One way to evaluate members is to