when do we work in small groups?

I was at an interview before the break and met up with a class of students who majors in Public Relations. During the Q&A session, I was asked this question: how can a class like Small Group Communication relate to Public Relations?

I was stunned for a few minutes because I never get this question when I teach COM 320 at Purdue. Since the class is offered from the Department of Communication, and it is an elective, I seldom get Communication students in my class.

Nobody questions the link between Small Group Communication and Public Relations.

I think this is a good question. Why is Small Group Communication relevant to PR? Engineering? Marketing? OLS? Computer Technology? Accounting? Why study group processes at all?

This is a good question and the short answer is: you cannot get away from working in small groups. Being adaptable and having the flexibility to work with groups is essential in today's work place.

So what have we learned about small group communication so far?
- 5 theories of group communication (social exchange, functional, systems, symbolic convergence, structuration)
- the group formation process
-enhancing creativity within small groups
- relating to others in groups and teams (cultural and interpersonal aspects)
- preparation to collaborate

Start putting these knowledge into practice and continue to refine your small group communication skills!

Video resumes

While the video resumes you put up on your blogs might not be the final version that you want to upload to a professional career site like LinkedIn, it is a start. You might think it's silly to put up a video resume when you can do the introductions in person in class. But what I really want you to do is watch yourself as you do a self introduction. In small groups, it is mandatory that you give a speech to let your co-workers know who you are, where you come from, what kinds of experiences do you bring to the table. This is just one way for you to look at yourself and observe (your content, your eye contact, your voice, your tone, your volume).

How did you come across? too serious? too casual? too much fun? unapproachable? giggly? fidgety? take a good look at your videos again and think about how you want to adjust your image. Making a good impression is important as you start establishing your identity in a group setting.

and remember: you cannot NOT communicate!

It's great to be back!

I owe the class a huge apology! For being on the road so much that I have no time to enjoy the great dynamics of this class. the good news is that I am done traveling - at least for the next several weeks, and I intend to give 120% to class to make up for the loss time.

I am definitely looking forward to getting back in the classroom and sharing the learning experience with all of you. Thank you for your patience and understanding; i know my schedule was real crazy.

See you in class people!!