OBJECTIVES:
 1. Differentiate between group decision making and group problem solving
 2. Describe the elements of group decision making.
 3. List and describe characteristics of effective group decision makers.
 4. Compare and contrast descriptive, functional, and prescriptive approaches to problem solving in small groups
 5. Identify the four phases of the group process.
 6. Discuss the three types of group activity tracks.

Not to decide is to decide. 
                     A problem defined is a problem half solved.
                                     You're either part of the solution or part of the problem!

   I.  Group Decision Making: Choosing Among Alternatives
 
    A. Elements of Group Decision Making
          1.  The group assesses the present situation
          2.  The group either identifies alternatives or identifies group goals
          3.  The group identifies positive and negative consequences of alternatives
          4.  The group selects the alternative (makes a decision)

     B. Methods of Group Decision Making 
          1.  Decisions by Experts in Group
          2.  Decisions by Experts Outside Group
          3.  Averaging Individual Rankings or Ratings
          4.  Random Choice
          5.  Majority Vote
          6.  Decision by Minority
          7.  Decision by Consensus (all members can support a course of action)

     C. Obstacles to Quality Group Decision Making
          1.  Group Fails to Analyze the Present Situation
          2.  Group Fails to Establish a Clear and Appropriate Goal
          3.  Group Fails to Identify the Positive and Negative Consequences of Alternatives
          4.  Group has Bad Information
          5.  Group does not Think Critically about the data they have

  II.   Group Problem Solving:  Overcoming Obstacles to Achieve a Goal

      A.  Three Elements of A Problem
          1.  Undesirable Existing Situation
          2.  Goal
          3.  Obstacles

      B.  Barriers to Working in Groups to Solve Problems
          1.  Insufficient Structure for Discussion
          2.  Not Sensitive to Issues of Cultural Diversity
          3.  Poor Planning
          4.  Insufficient Resources
          5.  Wrong People Attending Meetings
          6.  Pressure to Provide Answer
          7.  Difficulty with Communication and Listening
          8.  Defensive, Negative Climate
          9.  Negative Attitude Toward Project or Other Group Members
        10.  Don't use PROCESS to help define problem or reach consensus

 III.   Three Approaches to Group Problem Solving
     A.  Descriptive Approach -  how groups solve problems
           1.  Orientation
           2.  Conflict
           3.  Emergence
           4.  Reinforcement
     B.  Functional Approach -  identifies key communicative behaviors 
                                                   that contribute to effective problem solving
           1.  Analysis Function
           2.  Idea Generation Function
           3.  Evaluation Function
           4.  Personal Sensitivity Function

             Refer to Review Box of Communication FUNCTIONS (p. 214)

     C.  Prescriptive Approach - recommends specific agendas and techniques 
                                                   to improve group performance

   IV.  Cultural Assumptions about Group Problem Solving and Decision Making

     A.  Strategies to Build Cultural Differences
          1.  Develop Mindfulness
          2.  Be Flexible
          3.  Tolerate Uncertainty and Ambiguity
          4.  Resist Sterotyping and Making Negative Judgements about Others
          5.  Ask Questions
          6.  Be Other-Oriented
     B.  Use Competent Communication Strategies!

V.   Putting Principle into Practice
     A.  Understand the Process of Group Decision Making
     B.  Distinguish Problem Solving from Decision Making
     C.  Identify the most effective Approach to Group Problem Solving
     D.  Bridge Cultural Differences