Final Discussion- Post 3

Of all the concepts we learned over the course of the semester,  nonverbal communication is my favorite. The text defines nonverbal communication as the subtle and multidimensional use of language in the form of body or facial gestures, tone of voice, turn taking, use of time, or habits or dress or hairstyle (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 78). The concept of nonverbal communication stands out to me because I feel it is a vital component of most conversations. I personally favor face-to-face communication and over the phone conversation due to this aspect alone. It is easy for messages sent via text to be lost in translation since there are very little nonverbal indicators to be recognized. However, in-person and over the phone messages are much more easy to interpret through reading ones facial expression or tone of voice. Overall, the section on nonverbal communication just reinforced its significance of its role in conversation and communication in general.

Final Discussion- Post 2

Overall, this class has taught me how to work effectively in a group environment. Everything I have learned through the course of the semester is valuable information that will be of use to me throughout my life. Furthermore, the skills I picked up in this class will be extremely useful for my future career since I will most likely be interacting with a group on a daily basis. My favorite thing about the class was the way it was setup. The format was very easy to follow and I liked that each week the agenda was for the most part routine. I guess my least favorite aspect would be the 12 hours that are required between each discussion post; however, I do understand the purpose. In terms of improvement, I can’t think of any area in particular that I would adjust or change. I have taken several online classes and the ones I have taken with professor Perez have been my favorite.

Final Discussion- Post 1

Looking back, I do think that the Group Observation Project was a useful project. This term I was also enrolled in Comm 156i- Qualitative Communication in which the main assignment for the class was a semester-long research project. This project was similar to the Group Observation in that they both required the use of observations; however, Comm 156 required interviews and surveys in addition to the observations. Though the content of the assignments were different, I feel both projects helped me greatly in terms of identifying and interpreting group behaviors. In regards to this class, the Group Observation Project was very beneficial as it allowed us a chance to apply what we had learned through the course of the semester. I also feel that the Movie Review/Analysis Paper was a good introduction to the Group Observation Project since it prepared us on how to observe a group before we had to do so first hand. Overall I thought the Group Observation Project was structured well and can’t think of anything in particular I would change.

Chapter 11/12- Post 3

Chapter 12 describes avoidance as a conflict resolution strategy that is generally ineffective. This strategy entails withdrawing from the conflict completely as a way to avoid addressing the issue at hand. Though I am not proud of it, I am someone who typically deals with conflict by avoiding it. Even if I am really upset, I am likely to conceal my true emotions in an effort to avoid confrontation. This is something I am trying to work on since I am starting to realize how destructive this style can be. Harris & Sherblom (2011) state that conflict is healthiest when group members face it head on since conflict is usually resolved only by working through it, rather than suppressing or avoiding it (p. 213). Without addressing the issue, the matter will never be resolved effectively and therefore; by doing this, I am only creating more conflict for the future. These behaviors take time to adjust; however, I am trying to practice conflict resolution strategies that produce a more effective result.

Chapter 11/12- Post 2

Chapter 12 lists several styles for small group resolution styles. One of these is collaboration which is considered the ideal conflict-resolution strategy for any group. Reaching a consensus requires carefully defining the issues, discussing group-process strategies for communication; agreeing on the paramaters of a good solution; being open, careful, and considerate; listening to all perspectives; and being willing to take the time and energy needed to forge solutions from the best parts of the perspective offered (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 208). On the other hand, competitive resolution has a win-lose orientation. This style is marked by self-interest, rather than mutual interest, and by an assumption of a limited resource and limited possibilities (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p.211).

As a member of a group, I have experienced both styles of conflict-resolution styles in the past and have found that collaboration always produces the most satisfying result. This is the most rewarding for me since the result is achieved through both parties agreeing mutually. Choosing a competitive style usually leaves one partied dissatisfied and therefore, the issue can never be fully resolved. Both of these resolution styles have also been relevant in my friendships as with most my friends I am able to resolve conflict by collaborating; however, one of my friends always has to be right which causes our arguments to be resolved more competitively.

Chapter 11/12- Post 1

Chapter 11 discusses the various group process and presentation techniques. These techniques can prevent the accumulation of errors leading to a poor conclusion, enhance your group’s creativity, facilitate its problem-solving process and provide a method by which the group can present that information to a larger audience in a persuasive matter (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 181). A forum provides a format for speaking and listening to a larger audience; a panel is a public format in which a group of four to eight experts discuss a problem or decision in front of an audience; a colloquium is a form of public discussion in which a small group of experts discusses a problem in front of an audience with the help from a moderator; and a symposium is a series of two to six brief speeches made on different aspects of a difficult problem. Of these techniques, I would probably follow the format of the forum as it seems the most similar to the discussion style I am used to in class.

Chapter 10- Post 3

Another concept discussed in Chapter 10 is Superiority Versus Equality. The text states that though there are bound to be discrepancies amongst a group, the contribution of each member is necessary for a group to work effectively. This means that while some members may be more experienced, powerful, or knowledgeable than others, they must put their egos in check and not view the other members as being inferior. In other words, establishing a sense of equality sets the stage for an effective group process. Equal participation from each of the members places everyone at the same level, which allows everyone to develop a mutual respect for one another. If a member has an attitude that they are superior, the other members are likely to become offended and view this member as arrogant which will therefore develop a degree of resentment and cause a divide amongst the members of the group.

Chapter 10- Post 2

　In general, there are many blocks or barriers that limit our creativity. In addition to perceptual barriers and emotional barriers, there are barriers presented by our cultural system that are based on the expectation of conformity with the rules and standard norms of thinking, behavior, and interaction. Some of these cultural barriers include a requirement for conformity, an expectation of practicality and efficiency, particular arenas for competition or cooperation, an expectation of politeness and of following rules for social order, and a dependence on generalizations (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 168). These barriers can restricting as they develop working habits that only follow standard norms which limit any room for creativity. If a group is always trying to play it safe, they will never reach their full potential. I have experienced several of these barriers in past group experiences, particularly “an expectation of practicality and efficiency” when some group members are not willing to push the boundaries of creativity due and instead want to play everything safe.

Chapter 10- Post 1

Creativity is defined as going beyond the current boundaries of technology, knowledge, social norms, or beliefs (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 162). In terms of groups, trying something new, invoking new perceptions, or providing a new response are considered creating approaches to problem solving. Creative interaction is beneficial to a group as it expands the possibilities of a product, a way of doing something, or a way of seeing things. I have found this theory to be true, based on my own personal experiences and experiences working in groups. This seems to be especially true in competitive scenarios, such as when groups are competing against each other. This is due to the fact that when multiple people and/or groups are competing for a common goal, uniqueness and originality are factors that cause for one to stand out among the rest. Such as in high school when my friend and I won a costume contest for the originality of our costumes. In the end, it definitely pays to think outside the box, especially in group settings as teamwork is a creative process.

Chapter 15- Post 3

Chapter 15 discusses the effect social media sites have had on computer mediated communication. Facebook is without a doubt the most prominent of these since it is widely used across the globe by a very broad and expansive range of people. Nowadays, people tend to use Facebook as the main outlet for maintains relationships between acquaintances, friends, and even family. This is due to the ease factor, since unlike traditional mail, communication is essentially instantaneous through conversing via Internet. Also, most people post photos of important events, which not only speeds up the sharing process, but allows for them to be shared with a larger audience at once. I know that I personally use Facebook as a means for keeping in touch with old friends and distant relatives; however, like most people, I may rely on it too much. I do not necessarily think that it's a bad thing, but it would be good for me to start making more of an effort to communicate through means of telephone or f2f communication.

Chapter 15- Post 2

Group size, proximity, and anonymity are all influential factors on a CMC group’s decision-making process. In terms of size, large groups appear to benefit most from using computer-mediated communication as they are able to generate more ideas per member as opposed to smaller groups. The physical proximity in which the members interact also affects the group process. The text states that even if group members are using CMC, but doing so from the same room, they are still more conscious of their personal-social identities, experience greater social pressure, and have a greater tendency to conform to the group’s expectations and norms, than do members of more widely distributed groups. Anonymity is also a factor that influences a CMC group’s decision-making process since unlike f2f groups, the members are not required to know one-another on a personal level in order to interact. This means they still communicate and make decisions anonymously and still produce a successful end result.

Chapter 15- Post 1

There are several big differences between computer-mediated communication (CMC) and face-to-face communication (f2f). While there are many benefits to CMC, there are disadvantages as well. This method allows messages to be sent and received instantaneously, through means of video, audio, and text. Coporations and groups frequently use CMC as it allows them to stay competitive in today's electronically connected economy. CMC group members tend to focus more on the task and instrumental aspects of the process; however, this content oriented style deemphasizes personal relationships due to the lack of interpersonal interaction. Computer-mediated communication offers less opportunity for conflict since there is a greater equality of participation but f2f groutypical ore likely to reach a consensus in a short amount of time. Overall, CMC groups typically have a higher success rate than f2f groups in terms of productivity and functionality, yet they are lacking the social-emotional relationships that are developed through face-to face communication. 

Chapter 7- Post 2

The text describes selective attention as choosing one message over the other (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 115). This means that the messages we choose to focus on have some sort of "programmed importance." I agree that this is true, not just for myself but for all individuals. Selective attention is a component of "sensing a message" and like I stated in my previous post, is an unconscious action. This is because we are naturally drawn to messages that are of interest of us, whereas we are less likely to provide our full attention if we cannot relate or do not care about the matter being discussed. I am guilty of this on several accounts; however, I found myself practicing selective attention just yesterday when one of my friends was recounting a relationship story that I had previously heard multiple times. Though I wanted to be there for her, the story at this point had become redundant as was no longer interesting to me, which ultimately caused me to divert my thoughts and attention elsewhere. 

Chapter 7- Post 1

A recent situation in which I found listening difficult was this weekend while trying to have a conversation at a bar. I was trying to catch up with an old friend I had run in to but the bar was so crowded and noisy that it made it extremely difficult to sense or hear the message. The text states that sensing or hearing the message is a voluntary act in which we choose certain sounds and noises to pay attention to, while avoiding others (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 115). While I was trying to focus on what he was saying, I was distracted by the amounts of external and internal noise that were caused by the surroundings. Overall, the quality of the conversation was affected by these factors so we weren’t able to catch up as much as we had hoped. This situation could have been improved if we had stepped aside somewhere more quiet to have a conversation that is not affected by noisy distractions.

Chapter 6- Post 2

　According to the text, proxemics is the study of how we use space to communicate. This is an important aspect of communication and one we must be aware of as proximity is interpreted differently throughout certain cultures. For example, one culture may interpret close proximity as positive indication, while it may cause someone of another culture to feel uncomfortable, which is why we need to be aware of the different cultural, personal, and role-related expectations and interpretations surrounding proxemics.
Chronemics on the other hand, is the study of the use of time. Time is seen as an organizing principle in the work world, especially in western culture where time is money. This means it is important to respect the time of your fellow group members and be aware of their expectations. I had an incident with a group from another class in which all five members were supposed to meet at the library to work on our group project. Once I arrived, I was surprised to see only myself and one other group member had shown up. I saw this as inconsiderate as I had no classes that day but drove to campus anyway, whereas the members who did not show gave the impression that they simply had better things to do with their time.

Chapter 6- Post 1

The text states that although verbal communication directs the task and process aspects of the group discussion, nonverbal communication forms the context in which we discuss them (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 98). Furthermore, there are eight guiding principles for nonverbal communication in terms of small groups.
The first principle is the quality of the relationships among group members is created through nonverbal behavior. This means our nonverbal indicators reflect how we feel about a person or situation. For example, the proximity in which we sit next in relation to other group members, or our facial expressions while other members are speaking. Our nonverbal behavior also serves as a reflection of ourselves as well since it allows other group members to interpret our words and actions.
The fifth principle of nonverbal communication is that groups operate within the norms and expectations of the culture of which they are a part. While the dominant culture of the United States is likely to dictate the norms of smaller groups, people from other cultures will respond differently to the group process based on their sociocultural context or based on the norms of their native culture.

Chapter 14- Post 3

Another concept from the chapter I believe is important is the section on success and failure. This section explains that mistakes and let downs are not always negative experiences as they are opportunities from which we can learn and improve. As well, the text included two quotes that summed this idea up perfectly; “The person who makes no mistakes usually makes nothing” and “Failure is a success if we learn from it.” Though these are often hard lessons to learn, as I have gotten older I have found this to be more and more true. Each year I feel I am growing wiser and more self-assured, which is mostly in part to the lessons I have learned through the experiences I have encountered. These experiences have been both good and bad yet I have come to realize I actually learn more through the negative experiences than the positive ones. This is because life is all about trial and error; you make mistakes, and you learn from them; however, like the chapter states, mistakes can only be learned from when we are aware of the causes and cures for the failure.

Chapter 14- Post 2

This chapter outlines several guidelines to follow in the process of obtaining individual observer feedback on the group process. These guidelines are beneficial to the overall outcome of the group as feedback helps improve how the group is functioning as well as completing its tasks. Furthermore, engaging in group discussion is more useful when the questions are customized to fit the needs of the particular group.
The ten guidelines listed in the chapter are as follows; avoid generalizations (the more specific, the better), focus on behaviors that can be changed, do not debate of argue with the group you are evaluating, do not micromanage the group process, remember your role, accentuate the positive aspects, end with specific suggestions for improvement, be clear and concise when presenting ideas orally or in writing, compliment in public and criticize in private and finally, develop positive relationships (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 255).

Chapter 14- Post 1

It is important to use a consultant or observer as it is not reasonable to try and perform both the roles of evaluating and observing. This is because it is very difficult to concentrate on the group process while still trying to evaluate it as well. Also, we may give off nonverbal signals that cause the group members to question our motives.
Using a consultant who is not affiliated with the group is much more efficient as they can provide insight as observed from an outsiders perspective. This will also help eliminate any bias that may have come as a result of taking on the observer role yourself. However, outside consults are not always available so in these situations it is best to select someone within the group to be an observer. This will in turn be beneficial for them as we tend to learn more about ourselves through observing the actions of others.

Chapter 5- Post 3

I found the discussion of nonverbal communication to be particularly interesting as it stressed the significance of nonverbal cues in the context of communication. Remland (2000) states that body or facial gestures, tone of voice, turn taking, use of time and habits of dress or hairstyle are all considered to be indicators of nonverbal communication. He also regards nonverbal communication as being subtle and multidimensional which is indeed true. In my opinion, nonverbal cues are very vital in a conversation as without them it is easy to misinterpret the message. This is something I have felt with conversing via phone or computer as it is much more difficult to convey emotion when communicating through text. Face-to-face interaction also makes it easier to determine if someone is being dishonest about something since nonverbal cues serve as an indicator of our emotions. Overall, the nonverbal aspect is just as important to communication as the verbal aspect and this is importance to be aware of.

Chapter 5- Post 2

The concept "white men of privilege" refers to the assumption that social, economic, and political power in the United States resides with upper-class and upper-middle-class White Europeans of wealth and privilege (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 83). This notion is part of the hierarchies of power throughout socialization that are based on long standing beliefs. Though I understand why this belief exists, I do not necessarily believe that it applies to our current culture. The text states that it is our challenge for the 21st century to revise these social norms and I feel that is being accomplished slowly but surely. One of the biggest game-changers in my opinion was the election of Barack Obama as this is the first time we have had a person of color as president of the United States. This serves as a contradiction to the concept "white men of privilege" as he currently holds the most powerful position in the United States. There is still much progress to be made; however, over time hopefully these barriers will be broken down. 

Chapter 5- Post 1

Diversity is described as the reality of our national and world community that is made up of people having cultures, languages, and social customs different from our own (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 73). Diversity can be beneficial to a group’s performance; however, it can also make the communication more difficult. This is because it is typically easier for us to relate to people who are similar to us, whereas it may be more difficult for people of different cultures to reach a common goal.  In order for diversity to have a positive effect, the members must work closely together and interact cooperatively. Peeters, Rutte, van Tuijl, and Reymen (2006) suggest that agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness are all qualities that are beneficial to the cohesiveness and overall productivity of a group. I believe that openness is the most valuable quality in embracing diversity as having an open mind will allow us to be more accepting of diversity.

Chapter 3/9- Post 3

One concept from the post that I found interesting was the discussion of unintended consequences in Chapter 9. The text states that unintended consequences are the results that occur because of the decision but were not expected or planned (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 149). To me this is an important concept to remember as most times we do not anticipate problems going wrong, especially toward the end of a project. However, the chapter emphasizes the fact that even small decisions can have large, unintended consequences. It is important that we keep an optimistic attitude while still preparing for the worst as if something does happen to go wrong, we want to be sure we are prepared for any error that may occur. I personally have had things go wrong toward the end of a project which makes things more stressful; however, most times I have been fortunate enough to find a solution before the deadline.

Chapter 3/9- Post 2

According to the text, constraints are an inevitable element of any decision-making process. As well, these constraints fall in to two categories; external and internal. External constraints are those that the group needs for the decision making process, such as time or money, whereas internal constraints are those integral to the problem (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 146). In one of my past classes, our group assignment was to raise awareness for a cause. We chose to raise money for one of our member’s close friend who sustained a traumatic brain injury from a car accident. In order to pull the event off, we had to use our resources such as connections and time in order to implement the solution. The external constraints we experienced ended up being worth it in the end as we were able to raise enough money to exceed our goal. During this project, we also experienced internal constraints as we initially had trouble finding a location to host our fundraiser.

Chapter 3/9- Post 1

The text states that every group has a certain set of assumptions about how people are expected to behave . These standards are distinct to each group and vary within them according to the various roles each member plays (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 41).In terms of group norms at SJSU, this prompt is difficult for me to answer as I am not a student who spends much time on campus, aside from going to class, which means I do not really associate myself with any particular group on campus. I do however believe that there are indeed different group norms among San Jose State, just like with any other group. I can definitely say that within my groups of friends there are different norms which I have progressively adjusted to through the years. I also believe that the presence or absence of one group member can drastically affect the dynamic of a group as each member’s role is what creates the “norm” of the group.

Chapter 2- Post #3

A concept I found interesting from Chapter 2 was the idea that giving and receiving feedback is an important factor in small group communication. The text states that both positive and negative feedback are vital among group members as positive feedback encourages creativity and diversity while negative feedback reduces deviation and improves function.

This is important to know as often times, group members are hesitant to speak their minds in fear of offending someone or having their ideas rejected. However, providing honest feedback tends to help the group more than it hurts it. This is advice that I will keep in mind during my future group experiences as in the past I have typically sat back and allowed others to make the decisions, even if I disagreed. Now, I will be sure to voice my input as it will ultimately benefit the group and make it stronger in the long run.

Chapter 2- Post #2

Chapter 2 defines entropy as disorganization, stagnation, and chaos (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 31). Entropy affects group when there is a lack of organization and order amongst the members. Entropy can be avoided through new ideas, energy and openness. However, it is important to maintain a degree of balance as groups can also become over stimulated, which can result in entropy as well.

Equifinality refers to the fact that living systems can take different routes in order to reach the same destination (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 32). In other words, groups must play to the strengths of their members in order to succeed at a given task. Though everyone may not possess the same skills, the group can become a successful unit through identifying the strengths of each member and then catering to those strengths.

Overall, groups are likely to encounter both entropy as well as equifinality although entropy hurts the outcome where as equifinality typically helps the outcome.

Chapter 2- Post #1

Since groups are living systems based on interdependence and interrelationships, groups become out of sync when parts of the system do not function well. Based on past experiences, I have found that establishing effective communication is key to establishing interdependence and interrelationships.

I previously took a small group communication class while at West Valley a couple years ago. During this semester there were two major projects in which we were required to work in assigned groups. Through the duration of the course, I learned a great deal about working in groups, both from my experiences and through witnessing the experiences of other groups.

The text states that interdependence of its members is basic to the synergy of small groups (Harris, 2011, p. 30). I found this to be true during my first group experience as one of our group members did not have a car and therefore had a difficult time making it to our several group meetings. Though this was an inconvenience to us, each group member did their part to offer rides to and from the meetings in order to keep the synergy alive.

As I previously stated, effective communication is key to ensuring the functionality of a group. During the second half of the semester, we had an issue with one member who suddenly stopped showing up to class and started ignoring our calls. After a week with no response we informed the professor of our conflict and later came to find that the individual had dropped the class without warning, leaving myself and fellow group members wondering what had happened.

Therefore, the statement reads true that groups are indeed living systems based on interdependence and interrelationships.

Introductory Post

Hi everyone!

My name is Amy Hakkinen and I am starting my senior year at SJSU. So exciting to finally see the light at the end of the tunnel! I love spending time with my friends & family, as well as my 3 dogs! I also make cake pops and I'm in the process of starting a side business so contact me if you are ever in need of some desserts :)

I took a class with Professor Perez last spring & found it to be one of the best online experiences I've had. Looking forward to another great semester!