Group Dynamics Training
Group Dynamics Training provides staff with the tools necessary to both identify and change behaviour within groups. This is accomplished primarily through an experiential training design.
The first day consists of allowing the participants to experience a norms crisis by creating a leadership vacuum in t-group (training group). T-groups are a non-traditional form of training with no designated authority figures. Participants learn through experience and write their own texbook as they proceed. Following a morning of t-groups, participants acquire a basic understanding of the science and history of group dynamics. Participants learn what to look for in a group and apply that knowledge to their particular t-group. The primary tools used to accomplish this task are the following 8 Process Points:
1. Norms
2. Leadership Struggle
3. Sub-groups
4. Non-verbals
5. Communication Flow
6. Hidden Agenda
7. Facilitator Style
8. Trust Level
Once participants have been exposed to this theory, they are allotted time each training day for t-groups in order to ensure they have a clear accurate understanding of the process points and can practice applying them to a group.
The second day of Group Dynamics Training accomplishes two objectives.
1. The First Objective is that through the fishbowl activity participants are afforded the opportunity to practice reading the 8 Process Points by observing another t-group. This experiential exercise allows participants to apply the theory taught on Day 1 of training to another t-group.
2. The Second Objective addressed is for the participants to gain a fundamental understanding of competition and its possible effects on the school. This objective is accomplished through an experiential exercise called the AB/XY exercise.
The third day of Group Dynamics Training takes the concepts taught regarding the science of Group Dynamics and applies them to a specific group, a GGI group (Guided Group Interaction group). Since GGI is a tool used to change behavior, it is imperative that participants learn:
1. What GGI is
2. Why GGI is used
3. How to conduct a productive GGI group
Participants learn that Guided Group Interaction is a form of group process that utilizes peer group pressure to change behavior. Participants are also taught Why GGI is used by the school. This is accomplished by exposing the history of juvenile corrections, and the organizational and normative structure of traditional resideintial programs. Once participants have been exposed to the failure and results of traditional clinical residential programs, it becomes evident why the school utilized GGI. That being established particiapants are now prepared to receive the 20 Guidelines of How to Conduct a Productive GGI Group.
The third and final training day also has participants experience GGI through a role-play activity. During this activity, participants are given the opportunity to play a role as a student in a GGI group and as a GGI leader. Following the role-play, participants are then give the opportunity to receive feedback on their style and performance as a GGI group leaders.
Group Dynamics Training is concluded with a final t-group where participants can comment on their t-group experience.
