TRAIN THE TRAINER

Group Dynamics

Tuckman's 5 Stage Model

Group dynamics describes how people in groups act and react to changing circumstances.

Bruce Wayne Tuckman

Developed 5 Stage Model of Group Development.

Model is relevant for trainers and training groups

Stages of Group Development

Trainers monitor how groups move through different stages.

Forming

Storming

Norming Performing

Adjourning

Forming

Forming

Storming

Norming Performi

ng

Adjourning

Forming Behaviours

Desire to be accepted by others

Very dependent on leader

Nothing much gets done

Taking in information

Forming impressions of each other

Roles and responsibilities are unclear

Forming - Trainer Role

1. Provide information

2. Allow time for introductions

3. Encourage questions

4. Outline goals or objectives

5. Provide backup or support materials

Forming

Storming

Norming Performi

ng

Adjourning

Storming

Storming Behaviours

Making demands on other group members

Potential leaders may emerge

Cliques may form

May be some conflict or disagreement

Testing boundaries and limits

Focus on small details to evade real issues

Competing voices and opinions

Storming- Trainer Role

1. Expect some disagreement

2. Watch for formation of cliques

3. Encourage sharing of opinions

4. Acknowledge differences

5. Focus on facilitation within the parameters of the training

6. Identify real issues

Norming

Norming Behaviours

Group members support each other

Compromises and agreements

Resistance to change in rules or agreements

Discussion on group processes and style

Formation of sub groups to accomplish tasks

Group engage in social activities

Shared understanding of goals

Norming- Trainer Role

1. Clarify your expectations of the group

2. Use a coaching style to develop group’s potential

3. Provide opportunities for leadership

4. Give and receive feedback on progress

5. Watch for group reverting to Storming

Performing

Performing Behaviours

Group members trust each other

Energy of group is focussed on achievement of task or goal

Little conflict

Working without external supervision

Different opinions are permitted & expected

Group decision making

Trainer Role

1. Facilitator rather than director

2. Provide opportunities for growth

3. Provide feedback on progress

4. Delegate responsibility and tasks

Adjourning

Adjourning behaviours

Commenting on end of relationships

May be some stress or anxiety regarding termination of group

Maturity regarding group processes

Fear of leaving the safety of the group

Adjourning – Trainer Role

1. Recognise what has been achieved

2. Codify or capture learning

3. Ensure transfer of learning

4. Prepare for group sense of loss

5. Facilitate opportunity to say goodbye and exchange contact information

Importance of Model for Trainers

Helpful starting point for managing groups

May identify which stage the group is at

Trainer can consider what needs to be done at each stage

Allocate sufficient time for each stage

Communicate progress

Reflect on own role and leadership style

Guidance for Trainers

Don’t tolerate bad behaviour in storming stage

Avoid using model as self fulfilling prophecy

There will be overlap in different stages

Discuss model with group

Investigate other models

A Really Useful Guide

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