Solving Problems in Groups and Teams

Problem Solving in Groups: When and Why

Setting the Stage for Problem Solving

Group Problem-Solving Strategies and Formats

Approaches and Stages in Problem Solving

Overcoming Dangers in Group Discussions

Advantages of Group Problem Solving

When to Use Groups for Problem Solving

Basic Skills

Building Cohesiveness

Developmental Stages in Problem-Solving Groups

Problem-Solving Formats

Solving Problems in Virtual Groups

A Structured Problem-Solving Approach

Decision-Making Methods

Information Underload and Overload

Unequal Participation

Pressure to Conform

Questions

  1. I found that interesting thing was the stages of the group problem-solving.
  1. There wasn't anything that bother me in this chapter.
  1. I would like to know more about the member relationship in groups when conflicts appear.

Resources

Accuracy

Commitment

Diversity

Is the job beyond the capacity of one person?

Are individuals' tasks interdependent?

Is there more than one decision or solution?

Is there potential for disagreement?

Some jobs are simply too big for one person to manage

In order to get anywhere, the group must realize that they have to assign areas of responsibility to each member.

Groups are best suited to tackling problems that have no single, cut-and-dried answer: What is the best way to boost membership in a campus organization?

Tackling a problem as a group is essential if you need the support of everyone involved.

Groups are most effective when members food good about one another. The most important ingredient in good personal relationships is mutual respect.

Cohesiveness: The degree to which members feel connected with and committed to their group.

Shared or compatible goals

Progress toward goals

Shared norms and values

Lack of perceived threat between members

Interdependence of members

Threat from outside the group

Orientation stage: members approach the problem and one another tentatively.

Conflict Stage: Members take strong positions and defend them against those who oppose their viewpoints.

Emergence Stage: One idea might emerge as the best one, or the group might combine the best parts of several plans into a new solution.

Reinforcement Stage: Not only do members accept the group's decision, they also endorse it.

Breakout Group

Problem Census

Focus Group

Parliamentary Procedure

Panel Discussion

Identify the Problem

Analyze the Problem

Word the Problem as a Broad, Open Question

Identify Criteria for Success

Gather Relevant Information

identify Supporting and Restraining Forces

Develop Creative Solutions

Brainstorm

Use the Nominal Group Technique

Evaluate Possible Solutions

Implement the Plan

Follow Up on the Solution

Consensus

Majority Control

Expert Opinion

Minority Control

Authority Rule

Underload: When a group lacks information necessary to operate effectively.

Overload: Occurs when the rate or complexity of material is too great to manage.