1. EFFECTIVE GROUP DISCUSSION
Theory and Practice
Twelfth Edition
C H A P T E R 4
The Small Group as a System
© 2007 The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.

2. Systems Perspective
A system is a set of relationships among interdependent, interacting components and forces.

3. Chapter Content Systems Perspective Principles of a System
Variables of a System
A System and Its Environment
Bona Fide Group Perspective
Communicating Across Boundaries
Characteristics of Effective Problem-Solving Groups

4. Principles of a System Interdependence Nonsummativity
Equifinality and multifinality

5. Variables of a System
Input
Throughput
Output

6. Model of a Small Group as a System

7. A System and Its Environment
Groups are interdependent with their environments
Open systems
Closed systems
Feedback is the environment’s response to a group’s output

8. Bona Fide Group Perspective Bona Fide = naturally occurring
Consistent with systems theory
Focus is on the embeddedness of smaller groups in larger systems
Bona fide virtual groups
Collaborating groups
Putnam & Stohl – Ed 12

9. Bona Fide perspective focuses on group’s relationship to environment
Boundaries of the group shift
Multiple group memberships
Members as representatives of other groups
Members leave and new ones join
Identity of members varies

10. Factors Affecting Group Boundaries
Multiple group memberships
Members serve as representatives of other groups
Fluctuation in group membership
Varying strength of identity with the group
Continued

11. Factors Contributing to Interdependence
Intergroup communication
Need for the group to coordinate with other groups
Group’s level of autonomy and jurisdiction
Group’s relationship with other groups
Continued

12. Communicating Across Boundaries
Boundary spanner functions:
Initiate transactions to import or export resources
Respond to initiatives from outsiders
Initiate temporary or permanent group membership
Continued

13. Characteristics of Effective Problem-Solving Groups
Input variables
Throughput variables
Output variables
Environmental factors
Continued

14. Input Variables Shared values and beliefs
Smallest number of members adequate for task
Understanding and acceptance of the group’s purpose
Needed resources are available
Understanding of the group’s relationship to other groups
Sufficient time
Adequate meeting place

15. Throughput Variables Dependable and reliable members
Stable, understood, and accepted member roles
Equal status among members
Agreed upon norms and rules
All-channel communication network
Skilled and considerate members
Efficient procedures

16. Output Variables Perception of group’s success Member satisfaction
High level of cohesiveness
Stable role & leadership structure
A strengthened parent organization

17. Environmental Factors
The environment should:
Publicly recognize the group’s accomplishments as a group
Supply adequate informational resources
Supply adequate resources and expertise
Provide a supportive atmosphere

18. While we’re discussing theories… Two basic types of theories:
Descriptive (What happens?)
Prescriptive (How can we make it better?)