All resources in OpenWA Communication

Small Group Discussion Methods

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This book is best thought of as a map that introduces some of the essential element of small group communication. It begins with some foundational information necessary for understanding what makes groups groups. Briefly, it will provide conceptual and practice elements that help inform how we are to think about actually defining groups and teams. It moves from there to explore the idea of group formation, helping us better understand why people join groups and how they participate within that setting. The following chapters explore issues such as cooperation, power, group thinking, listening, and making decisions together. These constituent elements of small group communication help us think about the themes that them come in the next chapters–how we address issues that cause conflict and the role of leaders within these settings. In the last chapter, the impact of culture and diversity are explored, reminding us of the ever present reality that virtually any group is comprised of people with different experiences, worldviews, ideologies, perspectives, and approaches. Sometimes those differences are obvious; other times, it is only through deeper exploration of issues together that one discovers the rich differences that color our world.

Material Type: Textbook

Author: Timothy J. Shaffer

Exploring Intercultural Communication

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Intercultural communication is the study and practice of communication across cultural contexts. It applies equally to domestic cultural differences such as ethnicity and gender and to international differences such as those associated with nationality or world region. Intercultural communication is an approach to relations among members of these groups that focuses on the recognition and respect of cultural differences, seeks the goal of mutual adaptation leading to biculturalism rather than simple assimilation, and supports the development of intercultural sensitivity on the part of individuals and organizations to enable empathic understanding and competent coordination of action across cultural differences.

Material Type: Textbook

Author: Tom Grothe

Intercultural Communication OER

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Excel spreadsheet of Intercultural Communication OER Resources created by Cheri Kendrick and Jennifer Colton-Jones. Readings are arranged by week in Canvas and changed each term depending on the speaker and field trip schedule for the term. Catalog course description: An introductory course that focuses on the impact of culture on the communication process. Emphasis is placed on both understanding cultural diversity and enhancing communication effectiveness in various intercultural contexts.

Material Type: Reading

Authors: Cheri Kendrick, Jennifer Colton-Jones

Communications: Small Group Communication Canvas Commons Course

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Communications: Small Group Communication Canvas Commons Course COMM 219 DESCRIPTION Provides theory and practice in teamwork, leadership, and conflict management through participation in small group situations. The emphasis will be on task-oriented, decision-making groups like those found in various workplaces. LEARNING OUTCOMES 1. Explain the transactional model of communication and describe how messages may be sent and received at both conscious and unconscious levels. 2. Describe the behaviors and attitudes used by the competent communicator who adapts appropriately to various workplace, professional, and personal contexts, other people with diverse perspectives and experiences, and the communicator's goals. 3. Explain and analyze the differences between a "me" orientation and a "we" orientation to problem-solving. 4. Recognize the cyclical nature of team development and create appropriately negotiated norms for team maintenance and performance enhancement. 5. Recognize and describe roles necessary for task performance and team maintenance, including the role of leader. 6. Analyze and report on the communication skills needed for managing conflict and tension in diverse teams.

Material Type: Full Course

Author: Lisa Merritt