12/3-12/9 Post 3: Constraints

"Constraints are inevitable element of any decision-making process and may be of two types: external or internal. External constraints are those imposed on the decision-making process, such as the time, money, energy, knowledge base, or other resources that the group needs for the decision-making process and to implement the solution. Internal constraints are those integral to the problem. They may have caused the initial problem, or they may have to do with limitations on the implementation, such as government regulations, the physical location, technical or design difficulties, or other constraining factors and circumstances." (146)

To refresh your memories, I took this excerpt straight from the book. It defines constraints perfectly as well as internal and external constraints. I chose this concept as my favorite one that we covered in this course because I can really relate to it outside the "classroom" (so to speak). For instance I am having real trouble with external constraints on Christmas shopping. Time and money are tight this year. I think that constraints are one of the most common challenges that people face everyday, especially in group settings. Like this concept and many others, this class provided useful knowledge that can be used everyday at any given time or place. Constraints are basic obstacles that everyone must overcome or find a solution to everyday. That is why I chose and like constraints.

12/3-12/9 Post 2: Likes/dislikes

This class has been by far my favorite COMM Studies class. I've learned a lot about the communication of individuals in regards to small groups. It has taught me a lot about myself. I know how I act and react with certain groups and certain group members. Also with certain leaders. I think my favorite thing about this class was applying what I learned to everyday life. After a study session/chapter reading I noticed things that were discussed in the text. I felt rather smart and kept pointing it out to coworkers. My least favorite thing about this class was the time frame for the posts. On top of work and school (which isn't an excuse) it was just a nuisance to make sure exactly twelve hours passed before I could post the next one. In regards to improvement, perhaps a live group chat/discussion. Other than that I like the way this class was ran: simple, to the point, interactive, thought provoking and learning!

12/3-12/9 Post 1: Group Observation Project

For the purposes of this class, I believe that the Group Observation Project was great! It helped me utilize the course objectives in a real-life setting of a group. The group I chose, a boys competitive gymnastics team, showed me a lot about communication studies, the behaviors of a group, etc. From this exercise as well as the entirety of the class, I now look/observe groups and people in my life to see why they say and do what they do, and to see if I can come up with ways to improve it. I've taken the experience from this assignment and applied it to everyday life situations for me. The obligation of viewing a group outside was great. It gave me a chance to explore. I don't think that there is anything that should be improved. Perhaps a one time interaction with the group (but that contradicts the purpose of observing the group). I think that interacting with the group can give the observer another perspective.