Exam 10: Solving Problems Using Small Groups
What three factors concerning question formulation should a group consider?
The student should list the following questions for formulating a question:
1. Is the question clear?
2. Is the question neutral?
3. Does the question promote discussion?
Finding the best solution to a problem involves evaluating each idea according to the criteria set, deciding which ideas best meet the criteria, and striving for a true consensus.
True
One of the first steps in small-group discussion is to assess the question the group has before them. Knowing which kind of question it is helps the group decide how to move forward. Identify and define these three types of questions, and provide an example of each.
If the group is arguing whether a statement is true or false, they are dealing with a question offact. An example of this is often found in the court jury decisions that weigh witness statements. A question of value is centered on whether something is good or bad or, in other words, the morality of the issue. For example, judging whether a defendant's actions were unlawful or in violation of present law is a question of value for a jury. A question of policy is when a group must decide whether any specific action is inorder. Many court jury decisions are questions of policy when they must decide if any damages should be awarded, and how much to award.
Mandel is frustrated with his boss for providing minimal leadership, as his group is clearly flailing. Mandel's boss is demonstrating a laissez-faire leadership style.
Nikki felt it necessary to interject a little humor into the discussion because the committee meeting became tense. A little later she took the lead and said, "Let's take a break for a few minutes." Nikki is carrying out the important function of a(n)
Match the word or phrase with its meaning.
-Question of value
In the _____ perspective of leadership, we frequently label a leader's style as democratic, autocratic, or laissez-faire.
In most groups, the type of leadership required to run a group depends on two chief ingredients: the reason for the group's existence and the composition of the group.
Match the word or phrase with its meaning.
-Laissez-faire leader
Nancy is a confident, dynamic businesswoman. She is heading up her company's capital building committee. She enables the group members to decide who will perform which specific tasks and jobs. Her style promotes overall satisfaction within the group process. What is her leadership style?
A jury must decide if Mike told the truth on the stand. During deliberations, the jury argues whether or not Mike's statements were true or false. This is an example of a question of value.
The democratic leader requires group involvement in the decision-making effort because the leader has no confidence.
There is no need to have a controlling presence when the individual members of any group already function as a cohesive group. What type of leadership would be appropriate for this type of group with minimal direction or instruction being given to group members by any one individual?
Group members who are "born leaders" carry the functional perspective.
________ encourages creativity and the free flow of ideas in the group generation of a long list of possible solutions.
The ___________ helps a group stay focused, although they may shift back and forth during the discussion, because it is an outline of points to be discussed.
Constructing a neutral question can lead to a more fruitful discussion.
When a jury decides if a defendant is entitled to damages or how much to award a defendant in damages, the jury is deciding a question of policy.
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