This book was created in the 1990s to serve as an introductory text in small group communication with a specific goal of bringing information about small group communication to as wide an audience as possible in a practical, accessible way. We think that ALL people will be involved in small groups at some point in their lives and they need to know how to make that experience as positive and productive as possible. Thus, this book continues to synthesize current small group theory and research with the goal of presenting this material in as usable fashion as it is possible for the reader. This book continues a long tradition of providing practical applications for the student interested in the dynamics of small group communication. This edition marks the first time two central chapters on communication are integrated into one chapter capturing key principles of both verbal and non-verbal small group behavior within a new definition of communication.

Table of Contents:

Part 1: Orientation to Small Group Systems

Chapter 1: Small Groups as the Heart of Society

Chapter 2: Groups as Structured Open Systems

Part 2: Foundations of Small Group Communicating

Chapter 3: Communication Principles for Group Members

Part 3: From Individuals to Group

Chapter 4: Becoming a Group

Chapter 5: Working with Diversity in the Small Group

Part 4: Understanding and Improving Group Throughput Processes

Chapter 6: Creative and Critical Thinking in the Small Group

Chapter 7: Group Problem-Solving Procedures

Chapter 8: Managing Conflicts Productively

Chapter 9: Applying Leadership Principles

Part 5: Small Group Public Presentations

Chapter 10: Planning, Organizing and Presenting Small Group Oral Presentations

Appendix: Techniques for Observing Small Groups