Experiential Learning and Small Group Dynamics: Working with the Genocide Intervention Network

Presenter Information

Krista Monson, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Location

CSU 204

Start Date

27-4-2009 8:00 AM

End Date

27-4-2009 10:00 AM

Student's Major

Communication Studies

Student's College

Arts and Humanities

Mentor's Name

James Dimock

Mentor's Department

Communication Studies

Mentor's College

Arts and Humanities

Description

Small group dynamics and decision making in small groups is a subject of interdisciplinary interest and study. The purpose of studying small groups is to both understand how groups make decisions and to improve the quality of those decisions including developing leadership skills, understanding the principles of shared leadership, conflict management, and avoiding groupthink. This research project, which began as a classroom assignment in the Fall of 2008, explored learning small group dynamics by developing 'real world' relationships between students in the classroom and an area nonprofit group, the Minnesota Genocide Intervention Network. Students learned the principles of small group dynamics while working with the Minnesota GIN in furtherance of their mission to "educate, advocate, and donate" in order to end and prevent genocide.