Interactive Group Exercise

1. Interactive Group Exercise Stranded in the Desert: An Exercise in Decision-Making 1

2. To determine the effectiveness of individual versus group decision-making. Objectives 2

3. Individually rank the pack items from 1 to 10. Break into groups and reach a consensus on the pack items. Compute the difference between individual and group rankings. Reconvene for class discussion. Instructions 3

4. Rules • Present your position, but listen carefully and weigh others’ positions as well. • Avoid changing your mind just to reach consensus. • Don’t flip a coin, use majority rule, or bargaining. • There is no winner or loser; work on compromise. • Make sure everyone has a say. 4

5. Research Results • Groups were often less effective than individuals. • Groups were more confident about their judgments than individuals. • Group size affected decision outcomes—the larger the group the poorer the decision quality. • Decision-making accuracy was higher when groups knew a great deal about the issues and group leaders possessed the ability to effectively evaluate the group members’ opinions and judgments. • The composition of a group affects its decision-making processes and ultimately performance. 5

6. Decision-Making Defined • Decision Making: identifying and choosing solutions that lead to a desired end-result. 6

7. Effective Group Decision-Making • Developing a clear understanding of the decision situation • Developing a clear understanding of the requirements for an effective choice • Thoroughly and accurately assessing the positive qualities of alternative solutions • Thoroughly and accurately assessing the negative qualities of alternative solutions 7

8. Advantages Greater pool of knowledge Different perspectives Greater comprehension Increased acceptance Training ground Disadvantages Social pressure Dominating by a vocal few Logrolling Goal displacement Groupthink Advantages and Disadvantages to Group Decision-Making 8