Communication in small groups

Communication in small groups consists of three or more people who share a common goal and communicate collectively to achieve it. During small group communication, interdependent participants analyze data, evaluate the nature of the problem(s), decide and provide a possible solution or procedure. Additionally, small group communication provides strong feedback, unique contributions to the group as well as a critical thinking analysis and self-disclosure from each member. Small groups communicate through an interpersonal exchange process of information, feelings and active listening in both two types of small groups: primary groups and secondary groups. Furthermore, small group communication can be interpreted as a systems perspective,indicating that individuals may interpret the same message differently. For example, in a group project, individuals might have different perspectives of their own goal. These interactions are dynamic because members are continuously sharing ideas, emotion, receiving and sending messages, making small group communication an evolving process. Communication grows, and with it, roles develop. These roles fall into three categories: task roles, social roles, and anti-group roles. Research has indicated that understanding these roles and how they are connected to the group’s dynamic will have a positive impact on group collaboration .