PLA Notes CD-ROM 1988-2001 25 A brief guide to group dynamics and team building

Document begins: PLA Notes CD-ROM 1988­2001 25 A brief guide to group dynamics and team building This section of the Notes provides training materials for participatory learning, exploring BOX 1 a different theme in each issue1. This issue explores how groups work. One of the key THE FOUR STAGES OF GROUP components of partic ipatory methods is the DEVELOPMENT emphasis on multidisciplinary teams of participants. By working as a group, the team In the early forming stage, the group is a members can approach a situation from collection of individuals, each with her/her own different perspectives, carefully monitor each agenda and expertise and little or no shared other's work, and carry out several tasks experience. simultaneously. The training required for good participation is based on a thorough As these individuals become more familiar with understanding of how groups perform. one another, they will almost certainly enter a storming phase where personal values and principles are challenged, roles and Groups can be powerful and productive when responsibilities are taken on and/or rejected, they function well. The performance and and the group's objectives and way of working output of the team is likely to be greater than together are defined. the sum ...