Page 13 - Effective group discussion theory and practice by Adams, Katherine H. Brilhart, John K. Galanes, Gloria J

xii Preface

in their groups. Chapter 2 presents the basics of communication theory that serve as
the foundation for studying small groups. In Chapter 3, we present systems theory as
the organizing framework used throughout the text.
Part II begins the discussion of group developing by focusing on the members,
the main small group inputs. Chapter 4 introduces the importance of diversity and the
contribution that members’ cultures and co- cultures make to that diversity. Chapter 5
discusses how member characteristics contribute to the roles that members play in
groups, including an enhanced section about the relationship of the “Big Five” per-
sonality characteristics from psychology to what happens in small groups.
Part III focuses on the development of the group as an entity by presenting informa-
tion about a variety of throughput processes. Chapter 6 consolidates logically the infor-
mation about norms, fantasy themes, and cohesiveness. Chapters 7 and 8 are companion
leadership chapters. Chapter 7 focuses on the theoretical concepts necessary to under-
standing leadership, and Chapter 8 provides practical suggestions for group leaders.
Part IV discusses the importance of having appropriate problem- solving and
decision- making processes to improve the quality of group outputs. As with leadership,
Chapters 9 and 10 are paired, with Chapter 9 providing conceptual information for
understanding problem solving and decision making and Chapter 10 providing specific
suggestions and techniques for improving problem- solving and decision- making pro-
cesses. Chapter 11 focuses on how conflict, if managed well, can improve group outputs.
In Part V, Chapter 12 presents tools for assessing and improving small groups.
Users of the text told us they preferred to have this chapter placed at the end, following
discussions of theories and concepts. However, these tools and assessments can easily
be used throughout the text to enhance discussion of concepts, if instructors prefer.
There are two appendices to this edition. Appendix A guides members in how to
gather and organize their informational resources in preparation for problem solving
and decision making. Although this information conceptually precedes Chapters 9
and 10, most upper- division students already know how to gather information. Appen-
dix B discusses the public presentation of a group’s work, including how to organize
presentations so the information is presented smoothly and seamlessly. In the previ-
ous edition, we incorporated a third appendix covering technology in groups; this
material is integrated throughout the text, so we removed this appendix.

New Edition Changes
This 15th edition of Effective Group Discussion retains the reorganization of the
14th edition, which fits the way many instructors have told us they prefer to teach.
■ We have retained our research base, have consolidated conceptual information
where possible, removed material and examples that seemed redundant or
out- of-date, and added current theoretical information.
■ We have integrated each chapter’s opening case more thoroughly with the infor-
mation presented throughout the chapter.
■ Small group techniques are integrated throughout the text so that students can
more readily link the concepts to the techniques.
■ We have sharpened our focus on communication to emphasize its centrality to
groups, as members mutually negotiate shared meaning.

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