Small Group Communication

"Groups are everywhere. You belong to some groups for fun and to some for profit. You join some to increase your prestige, and you join others simply because you have to. Some help you fulfill personal or professional objectives, and others meet your moral and ethical needs and give you a sense of well-being. Groups help you define who you are. The groups to which you belong or aspire to belong tell you about your own preferences and goals. The groups you refuse to join tell about your dislikes, fears, and values. Groups are a great impact on your daily life, and you need to belong to a number of them to survive in today's world.

"Some of your most important communication will take place in one group or another. It is estimated that over 11 million meetings are held each day and that at least 40 percent of your work life will be spent attending group meetings and conferences. A recent survey showed that the typical executive spends about 700 hours per year interacting in groups. That is the equivalent of two of every five days on the job. Thus, knowing how to relate to others in a group setting is not only vital if you are to attain personal success but also if you are to attain professional success." (Gamble & Gamble, Communication Works, p. 267)

Empathy, a Moderated E-mail List about Interpersonal and Small Group Communication

Focus Groups

Group Presentations

Small group collaboration on the Internet

Small Group Development

Small Group Initiatives Activities

Small Group Interdisciplinary Research Page

Application: Try this learning activity for students, which applies interpersonal communication skills in the group setting (click here).

Copyright ©1999 The McGraw-Hill Companies. All rights reserved. Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of The McGraw-Hill Companies. For further information about this site contact communications@mcgraw-hill.com