Page 169 - Communication in Organizations Basic Skills and Conversation Models

Appendix A 158

Divide the group into subgroups of four (A-D). Appoint a leader to each subgroup.
Decide upon the time you want to spend (20 to 25 minutes will be enough).
Group A: Start brainstorming about the chosen subject.
Group B: Use the Delphi technique to come up with a strategy.
Group C: Use the nominal group technique in order to find a solution.
Group All participants think individually of as many strategies possible for the chosen
D: problem.

When the arranged time has elapsed, compare the chosen strategies with each other in the
entire group and discuss the techniques used. Make a list of the pros and cons of the
different techniques.

Chapter 13 Leading meetings

Exercise 13.1 Organizing a conference
In this exercise there are four roles to be played: (a) leader of the meeting; (b) minutes
taker; (c) participants at the meeting; (d) observers. For example in a group of 12 students
there may be 7 participants and 3 observers. Depending on the time available the exercise
may be repeated several times, so that more students play the role of leader of the
meeting.
The subject of the meeting is the organization of a conference that is of importance to
the students. The conference should be held during one afternoon or one day.

Role of leader of the meeting
Think in advance of a structure that you want to propose for the discussion. Then try to
lead the meeting in accordance with the structure in Figure 13.1. The outcome of the
discussion should be the time, place and programme of the conference.

Role of the minutes taker

Try to make minutes in accordance with the structure in Figure 13.1. Work out your notes
after the meeting. Deliver your notes to the trainer.

Role of participants
Use your imagination to create a nice programme for the conference.

Role of observers

Observers should evaluate the meeting according to the guidelines in Appendix B on role
play (pp. 186–191). Decide upon which of the observers will lead the feedback session.