Synopses & Reviews
Communicating in Groups offers a concise, step-by-step introduction to the theory and practice of small group communication and teaches students to develop and apply critical thinking skills in group problem-solving situations. The book continues to synthesize current small group theory and research while presenting the material in a practical and accessible manner for students interested in the dynamics of small group communication. The eighth edition marks the first time two central chapters on communication are integrated into one chapter, capturing key principles of both verbal and non-verbal small group behavior within a new definition of communication. With the firm belief that group participation can be an uplifting, energizing experience, authors Kathy Adams and Gloria Galanes give students the tools they will need to achieve this outcome. Research and theory are presented with a focus on what is important to students--understanding their group experiences and making them effective communicators.
Synopsis
This book was created in the 1990s to serve as an introductory text in small group communication with a specific goal of bringing information about small group communication to as wide an audience as possible in a practical, accessible way. We think that ALL people will be involved in small groups at some point in their lives and they need to know how to make that experience as positive and productive as possible. Thus, this book continues to synthesize current small group theory and research with the goal of presenting this material in as usable fashion as it is possible for the reader. This book continues a long tradition of providing practical applications for the student interested in the dynamics of small group communication. This edition marks the first time two central chapters on communication are integrated into one chapter capturing key principles of both verbal and non-verbal small group behavior within a new definition of communication.
About the Author
Katherine L. Adams is Professor of Speech Communication at California State University, Fresno, where she received a Meritorious Promise and Performance award in 1989. She has served as their Graduate Coordinator since 1989. She received her Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Utah under the direction of B. Aubrey Fisher. She has authored four instructors manuals in interpersonal and small group communication and most recently, this group communication book with Gloria Galanes. She has published articles in the areas of conversational analysis and interpersonal communication. Currently she is an associate editor for Communication Reports and The Western Journal of Communication. She participates, at all levels, in the Western States Communication Association and Speech Communication Association and teaches in the areas of interpersonal communication, communication theory, small group communication, and research methods. Gloria J. Galanes is Associate Professor of Communication and Mass Media at Southwest Missouri St. University and has received the Universitys Faculty Excellence in Teaching and the Outstanding Graduate Faculty Member awards.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents:
Part 1: Orientation to Small Group Systems
Chapter 1: Small Groups as the Heart of Society Chapter 2: Groups as Structured Open Systems
Part 2: Foundations of Small Group Communication
Chapter 3: Communication Principles for Group Members
Part 3: From Individuals to Group
Chapter 4: Becoming a Group Chapter 5: Working with Diversity in a Small Group
Part 4: Understanding and Improving Group Throughput Processes
Chapter 6: Creative and Critical Thinking in the Small Group Chapter 7: Group Problem Solving Procedures Chapter 8: Managing Conflicts Productively Chapter 9: Applying Leadership Principles.
Part 5: Small Group Public Presentations
Chapter 10: Planning, Organizing and Presenting Small Group Oral Presentations
Appendix: Techniques for Observing Small Groups