Group Communication and Discussion

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. (SPCH 2333) Group Communication and Discussion. COURSE OVERVIEW. Explores principles, practice and research on small group communication. Focuses on definition, structure and functions of groups, including roles, norms, power and/or communication climate. Examines processes such as problem-solving, role-playing, decision-making, leadership, organization and/or conflict management. Attention to verbal and nonverbal codes, listening, relationships and/or cooperation as foundations for interaction and group productivity. Considers professional, political, religious, community and/or cultural contexts in which group communication occurs. RELEVANCE AND APPLICATION. Develops both understanding and practical ability for effective participation and leadership in group settings with diverse participants across professional, academic and/or civic contexts. Builds competence in problem solving, decision-making and conflict management within teams. Strengthens ability to manage power dynamics, foster positive communication climates and/or adapt to cultural differences in group interaction. Enhances capacity for collaboration, organizational effectiveness and leadership in contexts where teamwork and collective decision-making are essential. DEEPENING UNDERSTANDINGS. Highlights how everyday ideas about group work differ from research-based perspectives. Develops understanding of the ways roles, norms, leadership and/or power can shape group interaction. Emphasizes that effective group communication requires cooperation, critical thinking and constructive conflict management to improve decision-making and outcomes. Explores how divergent or unfamiliar perspectives and backgrounds shape group interaction, offering insight into effective collaboration in diverse teams. TOPICS AND THEMES. May include exploration of group definition, structure and functions; study of roles, norms and power in group dynamics; analysis of communication climate and culture; approaches to problem solving and decision-making; strategies for leadership, organization and conflict management; examination of verbal and nonverbal codes and listening skills; techniques for fostering cooperation and productivity in groups. Course discussions may also engage with diverse and sometimes unfamiliar perspectives, reflecting the variety of professional, political, religious, community and/or cultural contexts in which group communication occurs.