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Interactive Audio Lesson
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Understanding Group Norms
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Today, we will discuss group norms. Can anyone tell me what they think group norms are?
Are they like rules within a group?
Exactly! They are those accepted standards of behavior shared by the group. For example, respecting opinions is a common norm in many teams. Can anyone share another example?
Meeting deadlines, right?
Correct! Norms ensure everyone is on the same page. Remember the acronym 'RESPECT' to think of key norms: Responsiveness, Efficiency, Support, Participation, Engagement, Commitment, Trust.
That's a great way to remember!
Yes! Now let's summarize: norms guide behavior and include things like respecting opinions and meeting deadlines.
Understanding Group Roles
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Now, let's shift our focus to roles in groups. What do you think the term 'roles' refers to in a team?
Is it about the tasks people take on?
Yes, exactly! Roles define how members contribute to group goals. We classify roles into three types: task-oriented, maintenance, and self-oriented. Can anyone give me an example of a task-oriented role?
An initiator, right?
Spot on! And how about a maintenance role?
I think a harmonizer is one.
Exactly! Lastly, self-oriented roles like blockers can disrupt the team's flow. Remember 'TMS' for Task, Maintenance, and Self-oriented—this will help you recall different roles.
I see how knowing our roles helps us work better!
Great! To conclude, norms shape behavior, while roles clarify contributions for team success.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
In this section, we explore group norms as shared standards of behavior and group roles that define individual contributions within a team. Understanding these aspects is essential for enhancing team dynamics and productivity.
Detailed
Group Norms and Roles
In any team, group norms and roles significantly influence how effectively members collaborate.
Norms
Group norms are the unwritten rules and shared standards of behavior that guide how members interact with one another. These can range from meeting deadlines, respecting each other's opinions, and adhering to coding guidelines in tech teams.
Roles
Individual roles within a group can be categorized into three main types:
1. Task-oriented roles: These players focus on achieving the group’s goals (e.g., initiator, evaluator).
2. Maintenance roles: These roles help maintain healthy interpersonal relationships within the group (e.g., harmonizer, encourager).
3. Self-oriented roles: These typically hinder group functionality (e.g., blocker, aggressor).
Knowing these norms and roles helps teams function more harmoniously, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.
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Audio Book
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Understanding Norms
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Norms
Norms are accepted standards of behavior shared by group members.
Examples:
- Meeting deadlines
- Respecting opinions
- Following coding standards in development teams
Detailed Explanation
Norms are like the unwritten rules that govern how group members behave. They help create a common understanding within the group about what is acceptable. For example, if a group has a norm of meeting deadlines, everyone in the group knows they are expected to complete their tasks on time. This consistency creates a level of accountability and helps the group function smoothly.
Examples & Analogies
Think of norms as the rules of a game. Just like in a game, where players must follow specific rules to play fair and keep the game enjoyable, group norms ensure that everyone is on the same page, contributing to a harmonious team environment.
Types of Roles in Groups
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Roles
Each group member plays a role which can be:
- Task-oriented roles – e.g., initiator, evaluator
- Maintenance roles – e.g., harmonizer, encourager
- Self-oriented roles – e.g., blocker, aggressor (generally negative)
Detailed Explanation
Roles in a group define how individuals contribute to the team's objectives. Task-oriented roles focus on the completion of the tasks, such as brainstorming or assessing the group's progress. Maintenance roles help maintain a positive group dynamic and ensure that members feel supported. On the other hand, self-oriented roles tend to be negative and can hinder progress, as they reflect behaviors that are more focused on personal agendas than the group's goals.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a sports team. The coach (task-oriented role) develops strategies to win, the team captain (maintenance role) keeps the morale high during tough games, and a player who frequently criticizes teammates for their mistakes (self-oriented role) can disrupt the team's harmony. Each member's role affects how well the team performs together.
Definitions & Key Concepts
Learn essential terms and foundational ideas that form the basis of the topic.
Key Concepts
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Group Norms: Shared standards of behavior among group members.
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Roles: Defined responsibilities individuals have within a group which can be task-oriented, maintenance, or self-oriented.
Examples & Real-Life Applications
See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.
Examples
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A software development team where members agree to follow coding standards—an example of a group norm.
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In a project team, where one member takes the role of 'initiator,' proposing new ideas, while another acts as 'harmonizer' to keep peace.
Memory Aids
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🎵 Rhymes Time
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In a group, learn to abide, norms keep us on the right side.
📖 Fascinating Stories
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Imagine a team preparing for a race. Each member has a role — the runner, the strategist, the supporter. Their shared norms, like cheering each other on, propel them to victory.
🧠 Other Memory Gems
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'TMS' helps to remember roles: Task-oriented, Maintenance, Self-oriented.
🎯 Super Acronyms
'TEAM' stands for Trust, Equity, Accountability, and Mutual respect — all important in maintaining group norms.
Flash Cards
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Glossary of Terms
Review the Definitions for terms.
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Term: Group Norms
Definition:
Accepted standards of behavior shared by group members.
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Term: Taskoriented roles
Definition:
Roles focused on achieving the group's tasks and objectives.
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Term: Maintenance roles
Definition:
Roles that promote healthy interpersonal relationships within the group.
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Term: Selforiented roles
Definition:
Roles that hinder the group's ability to work effectively.