3.1. Throughout your university career, you will be expected to work in groups.

Question

3.1.1. Name the five stages of groups and provide practical examples that you can do to assist your
group to move towards the performing stage. (5

Answer 1

points)

The five stages of groups are: forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning.

1. Forming: This is the initial stage where group members come together and get to know each other. Practical examples to assist your group in moving towards the performing stage may include:

- Icebreaker activities: Engage in icebreaker activities to help members feel more comfortable with each other and build trust. This can include sharing personal experiences, playing team-building games, or conducting a fun exercise.
- Establishing goals and roles: Define clear goals and roles within the group. This helps everyone understand their responsibilities and what needs to be accomplished.
- Open communication: Encourage open communication from the start. This includes creating an environment where members feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and questions.

2. Storming: In this stage, conflicts and disagreements may arise as members start to assert themselves within the group. Practical examples to move towards the performing stage may include:

- Facilitating discussions: Ensure everyone has an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns during group discussions. Promote active listening and constructive feedback.
- Conflict resolution: Address conflicts and disagreements in a timely and respectful manner. Encourage compromise and finding common ground.
- Team-building activities: Engage in team-building activities that encourage collaboration and understanding among group members.

3. Norming: During this stage, group members start to establish norms, rules, and guidelines for working together. Practical examples may include:

- Creating group guidelines: Collaboratively establish rules and norms that everyone in the group agrees upon. This can include setting deadlines, defining meeting norms, and determining communication channels.
- Building trust and rapport: Engage in activities that foster trust and rapport among group members. This can include team-building exercises, sharing personal stories, or engaging in social activities outside of formal group meetings.

4. Performing: This is the stage where the group is functioning at its highest level, achieving its goals, and working collaboratively. Practical examples to maintain and enhance performance may include:

- Effective delegation: Distribute tasks and responsibilities effectively among group members based on their strengths and interests. This promotes a sense of ownership and accountability.
- Regular communication and progress tracking: Maintain regular communication and track the group's progress towards its goals. This helps identify any potential issues or areas for improvement.
- Encouragement and recognition: Provide positive reinforcement and recognition for the group's achievements and efforts. This boosts morale and motivates members to continue performing at a high level.

5. Adjourning: This is the final stage where the group completes its tasks and disbands. Practical examples to facilitate this stage may include:

- Reflection and feedback: Reflect on the group's accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned. Provide constructive feedback to enhance future group experiences.
- Celebratory activities: Engage in celebratory activities to acknowledge the group's achievements and build a sense of closure. This can include a group dinner, a farewell gathering, or exchanging thank-you notes.

By following these practical examples, groups can effectively navigate through the stages and progress towards the performing stage, where they can work collaboratively and achieve their goals.