The purpose of small group communication theory is to explain and predict small group phenomena. This assignment requires you to analyze a group in terms of systems theory so that you may more clearly understand how the theory explains everyday communication.
Consider the following Small Group Communication situations:
• An engineering research and development team for an automobile manufacture roundaries
• A jury
• A group of students working on a class project
• A family making a decision
Select a small group to analyze. This group should be one in which you either are currently or have been a participant (e.g., bible study group, work group, student project group, family decision-making group). Analyze the group in terms of systems theory. Below are some questions to consider in writing your analyses, keeping in mind that you do not need to address all of them. Please note that this assignment is to be written in an essay not a question-answer format, with a well-developed introduction and conclusion.
• What are some examples of input, throughput, and output?
• How does the ripple effect and synergy show the interconnectedness of group members?
• How does the group manage stability and change?
• How does the group establish and maintain its boundaries.
• What conclusions about group effectiveness can you derive from your analyses?
• Be sure to support your analyses with specific evidence from the group (e.g., remarks made by group members, decisions by the group, behaviors observed), text (e.g., to define systems theory concepts), and Scripture.
