Page 68 - Effective group discussion theory and practice by Adams, Katherine H. Brilhart, John K. Galanes, Gloria J

The Small

Group as

a System
©Nick White/Getty Images

C H A P T E R 3

STUDY OBJECTIVES CENTRAL MESSAGE
As a result of studying Chapter 3, you should be able to: All components of a
1. Describe the small group as a system by explaining the key
principles of any system: interdependence, synergy, and small group operate
equifinality. interdependently with one
2. List and explain the major input, throughput, and output
components in a small group system and provide examples of another, and the group itself
their interdependence. is interdependent with its
3. Explain the interdependent relationship between the small group
and its environment. environment. To understand
4. Explain how inputs, throughputs, and outputs can be evaluated a group fully, we must
for effectiveness. examine the components in
5. Describe the main concepts of the bona fide group perspective.
6. Explain what boundary spanners are and why they are important relationship to one another,
to a small group. not in isolation.

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