Research & Summaries

Once again, you can always do more, but for the minimum requirements, you must answer at least three of the questions.

1. Take the Ross-DeWine Conflict Management Message Style Instrument located in the Module 4 content area. In your post, please discuss the followings:

  • 1) Share your results.
  • 2) Then, describe an instance where your conflict style was effective. How did your conflict style help you meet the group’s goals?
  • 3) Next, describe an instance where your conflict style was ineffective. Why was it ineffective?
  • 4) What did you learn from these experiences about conflict?

2. We often assume that conflict is detrimental to relationships. However, conflict is actually a very healthy part of life. In your post, please discuss the followings:

  • 1) Describe a time when you experienced conflict in a group that was helpful.
    • 2) What was the conflict about?
    • 3) What type of conflict was it (i.e., task, personal, procedural)?
    • 4) How did the conflict help the group meet its goals?

3. Groupthink is a significant issue that should be dealt with in small group communication. In your post, discuss the followings:

    • 1) Have you ever experienced groupthink?
    • 2) What made your group susceptible to it?
    • 3) What verbal and nonverbal messages can you contribute to your group to help avoid groupthink?

4. Complete the Small Group Leader Traits Profile located under Module 4 content. Then, discuss the followings: 1) Share your findings with the class.

    • 2) Did the results surprise you? Why or why not?
    • 3) How might this assessment be useful in your small group?

5. Read Disney’s Approach to Leadership Training: https://www.disneyinstitute.com/blog/leadership-lessons-from-walt-disney–how-to/ and find 1 additional link to a specific organization’s leadership philosophy. Then discuss the followings:

    • 1) How do the two compare?
    • 2) Which organization would you most like to work for and why?