Team formation Flashcards
How are groups formed?
Groups tend to be task-driven and form because of a problem occurring
What is Tuckman’s group formation theory?
Tuckman’s theory describes how all groups go through a process of formation stages known as forming, storming, norming, and performing.
His theory explains how group formation stages are a natural part of group development and groups can move back and forth between the tasks.
What is the forming stage of Tuckman’s group formation theory?
This stage is where group members get to know each other, and their trust levels are low. The group behaviour is fuelled by the desire to be accepted so everyone agrees with each other to avoid conflict. Group members are gathering information on the scope of the task and how to approach it.
What is the Storming stage of Tuckman’s group formation theory?
This stage is where relationships are explored, and enough trust has been formed for people to confidently disagree with each other. Different ideas compete for consideration and leaders are challenged. This stage can be uncomfortable and upsetting to members who don’t like conflict.
What is the Norming stage of Tuckman’s group formation theory
This stage is when the group establishes its own structure, and the shared purpose becomes clearer as decisions are made on how to work together and honour everyone’s contribution. This is when there’s a feeling of togetherness and belonging.
What is the performing stage of Tuckman’s group formation theory?
This is the stage where the group becomes mature and productive, each person understands their roles and tasks. This can lead to achievement as long as the group remains in focus and their aims are realistic.
What is the mourning/grieving/adjourning stage of Tuckman’s group formation theory?
This is when the task is complete, and the group is no longer needed.
Why do some teams succeed, and others fail?
This is determined by the range of traits displayed by the group members
What are the advantageous?
- A greater variety of complex issues can be tackled by pooling expertise and resources
- Problems are exposed to a greater diversity of knowledge, skill, and experience
- The approach boosts morale and ownership through the participative decision making
- Improvement opportunities that cross-departmental or functional boundaries can be more easily addressed
- The recommendations are more likely to be implemented than if they come from an individual
Why do teams fail?
Personalities within the team are too similar
No clear leadership
very strong members may intimidate others
Too many members confuse the task
“Jokers” may be destructive as their behaviour distracts from the task and can divide the team by “silly” behaviour
“Scape-goating” may occur, this is where the team blame one person for errors or lack of progress
Some members may “shut down” this is where a team member stop being productive and sits back it can be caused by “scape-goating” or by a lack of knowledge or frustration.
“Rescuing” where team members try and support/defend another team member may cause disruption.
The group may avoid the task in question by changing the topic, joking around etc this is known as “flight”.
