CMST& 230 - Small Group Communication

5 credits

Prerequisites
Eligible for ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment in ENGL 095.

Explores effective communication in small groups. Students examine aspects of group process including leadership, conflict management, decision-making, conformity, and critical thinking. Emphasis is given to practical experience in group discussion, participation, analysis, and process.

Theory Hours
5 theory hours.

AA Specified Elective
Satisfies humanities distribution area F requirement or specified elective for the AA degree.

Course Outcomes
After completing this class, students should be able to:

Describe and distinguish between different types of groups
Describe and distinguish between the stages of group development
Identify the language, listening, and nonverbal communication skills needed to promote a positive communication climate in a group setting
Analyze the influence of culture on group interaction
Identify the actions needed to conduct an effective meeting and promote group productivity
Analyze the decision-making methods used by a group
Identify methods groups can use to critical and creative thinking for problem-solving
Recognize how leadership theories explain how groups address their goals
Identify and apply different methods for managing conflict within a group