CLASS NOTES
CHAPTER 4: Using Verbal and Nonverbal Messages in
Small Group Communication
I.
Case Study: The
Search for A New Dean
a.
What are your
thoughts on this case?
II.
Creating
messages in a small group
a.
Message
defined:
III.
How
Communication Structures the Small Group
a.
Structuration defined:
b.
The theory
contains three important assumptions.
i.
ii.
iii.
IV.
Using language
to help the group progress
i.
Follow the rules
of standard English
1.
Code-switching
2.
Why do this?
ii.
Adjust to the
symbolic nature of language
1.
Bypassing defined:
2.
Concrete vs.
abstract
3.
Strive to create
shared meaning
iii.
Use emotive
words cautiously
1.
Emotive words defined (trigger words):
iv.
Organize remarks
1.
The process of
organizing
v.
Make sure the
discussion question is clear and appropriate
1.
Summarize
application of language use
a.
Unless the group
has already narrowed a list of alternatives to two, avoid either-or questions
b.
Word questions
as concretely as possible
c.
Avoid suggesting
the answer in the question
d.
Apply critical
thinking skills to questions you ask
V.
Nonverbal
Behaviors in Small Group Communication
a.
Nonverbal communication defined:
b.
Principles of
nonverbal communication
i.
ii.
iii.
c.
Functions of
nonverbal communication
i.
Communicate
emotions
ii.
Communicate how
we perceive our relationship to other people
iii.
Supplement
iv.
Substitute
v.
Regulate
vi.
Contradict
d.
Categories of
Nonverbal signals
i.
Appearance
ii.
Space and
Seating
1.
group ecology:
iii.
Facial
expressions and eye contact
iv.
Movements
v.
Voice
vi.
Timing
VI.
Nonverbal
Behavior in Computer-Mediated Groups
a.
Net conference:
b.
Social presence:
c.
Emoticons: