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.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
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.
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.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
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!
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!
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