Communicating In Groups

Introduction I need four volunteers. (Five minute discussion) Did you notice anything unusual about each students behavior? Happiness Boredom Confusion Agreement

Study Questions 1. What are common forms of nonverbal communication? 2. List skills I can use for effective listening? 3. What are the ways I can contribute to a group discussion? 4. What are the responsibilities of a good discussion leader? 5. How should I respond to questions? 6. What is extemporaneous speaking?

Discussion What is nonverbal communication? Give an example of nonverbal communication that you have observed someone use today.

What are common forms of nonverbal communication? Appearance – Dressing appropriately for the occasion – Maintaining cleanliness Attention – Maintaining appropriate eye contact – Responding appropriately Body Movement – Maintaining an erect posture – Avoiding distracting mannerisms – Using appropriate gestures

What are common forms of nonverbal communication? Distance – Conversational distance average 2-4 feet – Formal encounters average 4-8 feet – Public Speaking average 12 feet or more Facial Expression – Smiling – Frowning – Raising eyebrows Other Cues – Tone of voice – Laughing – Coughing – Yawning

Discussion Why is effective listening important? What are some skills that can be used for effective listening?

List skills I can use for effective listening? Focus attention on the speaker. Maintain appropriate eye contact Analyze what is being said Respond with an occasional word or statement. Ask appropriate questions? Take notes in appropriate situations? (Conduct Story Telling Exercise)

Discussion What are the ways you can contribute in group discussions?

What are the ways I can contribute to a group discussion? Be informed on issues. Listen to other people’s comments. Contribute to the discussion. Keep comments on the topic. Keep comments positive and constructive. Keep an open mind to other peoples ideas.

Discussion Have you ever been in group discussions that did not accomplish the groups goals? Why did the group struggle to accomplish their goals?

What are the responsibilities of a good discussion leader? Introduce the topic and give background information. Start the discussion. Encourage all members to participate. Keep Discussion positive and constructive. Make statements to redirect thinking. Close with a statement to bring the group discussion to an end.

Discussion How should one respond to questions?

How should I respond to questions? Use good judgment. Do not guess.

Discussion What is the difference between prepared and extemporaneous speeches? What type of situations may call for speaking extemporaneously?

What is extemporaneous speaking? Speaking on a topic without a written or memorized script. Making a statement with little or no time for preparation. Extemporaneous Speaking Exercise

Conclusion The ability to communicate effectively is a valuable skill. Good communication does not just mean being able to speak well. It also means being able to listen well and being aware of nonverbal communication. Good Speaking, Listening, and Nonverbal communication skills should be developed to improve your ability to participate in group discussions.