COMM 3142 - Ch. 2 Flashcards
(16 cards)
system
a set of interconnected parts working together to form a whole in the context of a changing environment
input
resources that come for outside a system, such as energy (sunlight, electricity), information (Internet, books), and people (a new group member)
entropy
a measure of a system’s movement toward disorganization and eventual termination
throughput
the process of transforming input into output to keep a system functioning
structuration theory
explains that systems, such as groups, establish stuctures for discussion and problem solving by creating rules, roles, norms, and power distribution to permit the system to function effectively and sustain itself.
output
the continual results of the group’s throughput (the transformation of input), such as decisions made, solutions created, and projects completed
ripple effect
a chain reaction that begins in one part of a system and spreads across the entire system
synergy
group performance from joint action of members exceeds expectations based on perceived abilities and skills of individual group members
deep diversity
substantial variation among members in task-relevant skills, knowledge, abilities, beliefs, values, perspectives, and problem-solving strategies
negative synergy
group members working together produce a worse result than expected based on perceived individual skills and abilities of members
dynamic equilibrium
a range in which systems can manage change effectively to promote growth and success without pushing the system to disaster
openness
degree of continuous interchange with the environment outside of the system
boundary control
regulation that determines the amount of access a group has to input and thus influence from outsiders in a system
role
a pattern of expected behavior associated with parts that members play in groups
network
a structured pattern of information flow and personal contact
cliques
small, narrowly focused subgroups that create a competitive atmosphere
