Question 1

Groups without constructive conflict have difficulty analyzing the wisdom of their decisions..

Accepted Answer

Constructive conflict allows for differing viewpoints to be expressed and analyzed, which can lead to more informed and wise decisions. Without this type of conflict, group members may not fully consider all options and potential drawbacks, leading to less effective decision-making.

Question 2

Generally,one smart person can generate more innovative ideas and creative solutions than an effective group can..

Accepted Answer

While an individual can bring unique perspectives and innovate thinking to a problem, a group can provide diverse ideas and perspectives, as well as collaborate to build upon each other's ideas to generate even more innovative solutions. Therefore, a group can generate more innovative ideas and creative solutions than one smart person.

Question 3

Organizational groups may have goals as complex as reengineering a global corporation or as simple as sharing relevant information at a weekly staff meeting..

Accepted Answer

Organizational groups can have a wide range of goals, from complex restructuring efforts to smaller-scale objectives such as improving communication within a team. Therefore, the statement is true.

Question 4

A theory is a clear,systematic,and predictive explanation of a phenomenon..

Accepted Answer

This is the definition of scientific theory. It must be well-structured, logical, and explain the observations. It should also provide predictions about what will happen next, which can be tested through experiments.

Question 5

Heterogeneous groups include members who are different from one another..

Accepted Answer

Heterogeneous groups are made up of members who are different from each other in terms of their background, experiences, skills, perspectives, and other characteristics. This diversity can bring greater creativity, innovation, and problem-solving ability to the group.

Question 6

In the best of groups,individual goals support the group's common goal..

Accepted Answer

In order for a group to function effectively, the individual goals of each member must align with the common goal of the group. This ensures that each member's efforts contribute to the overall success of the group.

Question 7

Resolving group dialects requires an either/or approach rather than a both/and approach..

Accepted Answer

Resolving group dialects often benefits from a both/and approach, which acknowledges and integrates multiple perspectives, rather than forcing a choice between them. This approach fosters inclusivity and understanding.

Question 8

When a task is fairly simple and routine,it may be more efficient for an individual working alone to accomplish the task..

Accepted Answer

When a task is simple and routine, it may not require collaboration or coordination with other individuals. This means that an individual working alone can complete the task more efficiently without the need to communicate or coordinate with others. However, there may still be situations where working with others can be more effective, such as when multiple perspectives are needed or when the task requires a diverse set of skills.

Question 9

Successful groups balance dialectical tensions by using a with/or approach..

Accepted Answer

Successful groups balance dialectical tensions by using a both/and approach, integrating opposing needs or perspectives rather than choosing one over the other.

Question 10

Group members express themselves verbally (words),nonverbally (facial expressions,body language,vocal cues)and/or through various mediated channels..

Accepted Answer

Group members have various ways of expressing themselves, including through verbal and nonverbal means as well as mediated channels such as email or text messaging.

Question 11

The structure ↔ spontaneity dialectic relies on both tested procedures to help a group achieve its goal as well as creative thinking..

Accepted Answer

The structure ↔ spontaneity dialectic recognizes the need for both structure and creativity in achieving a group's goals. It emphasizes the importance of having established procedures and frameworks while also allowing for flexibility and innovative thinking.

Question 12

When a task is complex and the answers are unclear,an effective group will perform better than individuals working alone..

Accepted Answer

This statement is generally true, as groups can bring diverse perspectives and skills together to tackle complex problems and come up with creative solutions. When working alone, an individual may be limited by their own biases, knowledge, and experience, whereas a group can help overcome these limitations through collaboration and discussion. However, it is important to note that not all groups are effective, and some may suffer from groupthink or other issues that can actually hinder performance.

Question 13

The social benefits of group work can be just as important as task achievement..

Accepted Answer

Group work can provide opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and relationship-building, which can have a positive impact on individuals' well-being and sense of belonging. These social benefits can be just as significant as the task achievements that result from group work.

Question 14

Skills explain why a particular strategy works in one situation and fails in another..

Accepted Answer

The answer of Skills explain why a particular strategy works...

Question 15

When a group functions as an open system,it guards its boundaries and discourages input from or interaction with the outside..

Accepted Answer

When a group functions as an open system, it encourages input from and interaction with the outside. An open system is characterized by the flow of information, resources, and feedback across its boundaries.

Question 16

Conflict is avoidable in effective groups..

Accepted Answer

Conflict is a natural occurrence in any group or team dynamic, and can sometimes even be productive if handled properly. Effective groups should focus on managing and resolving conflicts in a constructive and respectful manner, rather than avoiding them altogether.

Question 17

"Two's company; three's a crowd" and "Music makes the world go 'round" are examples of dialectic tensions..

Accepted Answer

These phrases are examples of proverbs or idioms, not dialectic tensions, which refer to opposing forces or contradictions in interpersonal relationships and communication theories.

Question 18

The key to balancing both the complex and competing elements in a group is a commitment to working toward the group's goal..

Accepted Answer

When all members of a group are committed to achieving the group's goal, it becomes easier to balance the complex and competing elements within the group. This involves collaboration, effective communication, and compromise. Each member should be willing to put in the effort required to achieve the group's goal and be open to feedback and constructive criticism. When everyone is working towards the same goal, it becomes easier to find common ground and resolve conflicts, which ultimately leads to success.

Question 19

Relational Dialectics Theory claims that relationships are characterized by ongoing tensions between the contradictory and complex elements of human experiences..

Accepted Answer

Relational Dialectics Theory does indeed claim that relationships are characterized by ongoing tensions between contradictory and complex elements of human experiences such as closeness and distance, autonomy and connectedness, and predictability and novelty.

Question 20

The task dimension offers the best indicator for assessing a group's level of productivity..

Accepted Answer

The task dimension is important but not the sole or best indicator for assessing a group's level of productivity. Other factors such as group cohesion, communication, leadership, and member roles also significantly impact a group's productivity.

Quiz 1: Introduction to Group Communication