What is group dynamics training?
Group dynamics training can include many areas of focus. Typically group dynamics involves at least three specific areas:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Problem solving
Appreciative Strategies, LLC provides theory and classroom activities designed to discover and enhance the overall effectiveness of teams or systems.
What is an example of group dynamics training?
One common training performed by Appreciative Strategies is decision making and problem solving. As part of this training participants explore the elements of good decision making and how group dynamics can create poor choices and consequences that no one wants to endure. Groups or teams may fall into a dynamic of mismanaged agreement. This paradox is sometimes known as The Abilene Paradox (Dr. Jerry Harvey and CRM Learning).
In this paradox teams often make similar errors in decisions and since team members are reluctant to share their concerns poor ideas are given more support. The result? Poor decisions are made and pointless "trips" down the wrong road are taken. Appreciative Strategies wants your organization to skip the trip!
Several people in our organization seem to be causing most of the problems. Is group dynamics training right for us?
Group theory in behavioral science typically is broken down in two distinct parts. The individual or dyadic processes and that of the group at large.
Behavior of one individual is typically modified just by the mere presence of another individual. In this dyad each person acknowledges the other through some form of communication or interaction. Even silence and avoidance can be a form of interaction.
The group (or team, 3 or more) exists as a perception of all other members. This means that individuals interact with other individuals and the behavior of all individuals (participants or observers) is influenced by the entire group. Considering this it is easy to understand that training and learning in a group format (versus individual) involves interpersonal dynamics. Isolating individuals for training will effect the group but likely not produce the desired outcomes. Group dynamics training is right for any group to discover and learn how to be more effective.
Is this the same as team-building? We want outdoor activities for our annual retreat?
Group dynamics training could be considered team-building. In essence that is typically a part of the desired outcome. Appreciative Strategies, LLC will facilitate groups and teams for retreat sessions, however we are not a resource for games with ropes, fear, and anxiety. A retreat facilitated by Appreciative Strategies, LLC may include some "fun" activities but the learning process is stimulated by intellectual activities and group work, not physical exercises.
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