Introduction to university life and academic writing

Small-group communication

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Actively working together toward a common goal

. Just having the same 

goal is not enough. To be classified as a group or team, members must be 

working together to achieve the common goal. 

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Characteristics of  Effective Problem-

Solving Teams

Successful problem-solving teams have seven basic characteristics in common:

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well organized

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receive periodic training

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examine assumptions and opinions

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evaluate possible solutions

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avoid groupthink

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manage cultural diversity and  operate virtually

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Basic Problem-Solving Procedure

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Define the problem.

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Research and analyze the problem.

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Establish a checklist of  criteria.

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List possible alternatives.

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Evaluate each alternative.

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Select the best alternative(s) and discuss how to implement it.

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Defining the problem