440 A.3 speaKinG in sMall GroUps
the solution, a time frame for implementation, and a list of individuals who will
be responsible for carrying out specific tasks.Quick Check
Steps in Problem Solving- identify and clearly define the problem.
- analyze the problem and identify criteria.
- Generate possible solutions.
- select the best solution.
- test and implement the solution.
Participating in Small Groups
To be an effective group participant, you have to understand how to manage the
problem-solving process. But knowing the steps is not enough; you also need
to prepare for meetings, evaluate evidence, effectively summarize the group’s
progress, listen courteously, and be sensitive to conflict.Come Prepared for Group Discussions
To contribute to group meetings, you need to be informed about the issues. Pre-
pare for group discussions by researching the issues. If the issue before your
group is the use of asbestos in school buildings, for example, research the most
recent scientific findings about the risks of this hazardous material. Chapter
8 describes how to use the library and the Internet to gather information for
speeches. Use those research techniques to prepare for group deliberations as
well. Bring your research notes to the group; don’t just rely on your memory or
your personal opinion to carry you through the discussion. Without research,
you will not be able to analyze the problem adequately.Do Not Suggest Solutions before Analyzing
the Problem
Research suggests that you should analyze a problem thoroughly before trying
to zero in on a solution.^10 Resist the temptation to settle quickly on one solution.
First, your group should systematically examine the causes, effects, history, and
symptoms of a problem.Evaluate Evidence
One study found that a key difference between groups that make successful de-
cisions and those that don’t lies in the ability of the group members to examineA.3
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