A Systems Approach to Small Group Interaction

Conceived as a core text for more theoretically based courses, "A Systems Approach to Small Group Interaction" uses Tubbs' "systems model" as a framework for explaining and integrating the major small group theories. The book thus offers an opportunity to enable undergraduates to clearly view theories that are usually only found in more advanced books. The new edition has been thoroughly updated to include over 100 new citations, more practical applications of small group interactions, plus new case studies and reading selections. Features include Tubb's own "System Model", a useful framwork borrowed from the social sciences that ties together the major small groups theories, making this typically difficult material more understandable for students. The book opens each chapter with a real-life case study, drawing students into the concepts about to be presented. It provides experiential exercises, validating the theories in students' minds and giving students greater insight into how theories relate to behaviour. Also provided are end-of-chapter readings, amplifying core chapter concepts and covering leadership in greater depth than any other book now available, highlighting this important topic. (Chapter 4). New to this edition is coverage of the family group, the social group, and the educational group. (Chapter 3). It also integrates new pedagogical aids - chapter previews, glossaries, and summaries, and provides a thorough explanation of the theory, rationalw, and advantages of the Systems Model, laying a firm foundation for the entire text. (chapter 1).