• Course Introduction

        • Time: 7 hours
        • Free Certificate
        You apply the principles of interpersonal communication in many settings in your daily life. A common setting is while working in small groups or teams. This type of communication happens casually as you interact with family and friends as well as more formally when you attempt to solve a challenge at work, at school, or while volunteering for a service activity. This course will focus on the principles of small group communication to help us better navigate this important communication setting.

        • Course Syllabus

          First, read the course syllabus. Then, enroll in the course by clicking "Enroll me". Click Unit 1 to read its introduction and learning outcomes. You will then see the learning materials and instructions on how to use them.

        • Unit 1: Introduction to Group Communication

          Group communication is essential in any organization and is a critical part of high performing teams. In this unit, we will learn about various aspects of group communication and how it impacts a group's ability to function at a high level.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 5 hours.

        • Unit 2: Theories of Group Communication

          Group communication is not always easy to initiate and maintain. In this unit, we will learn about some of the challenges to effective group communication and how to navigate these obstacles.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 30 minutes.

        • Unit 3: Conflict Management and Group Communication

          Conflict – sometimes represented in differences of opinions – is a natural part of group communication. In this unit, we will learn how to identify and manage conflict to keep group communication flowing at an optimal level.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 30 minutes.

        • Unit 4: Small Group Communication in Action

          In this unit, we will see group communication in action as we watch a small group work to communicate with each demonstrating some of the challenges. Here is where we can apply the various communication concepts covered in the course to more of a "real world" setting.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.

        • Course Feedback Survey

          Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.

          If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org or post in our discussion forum.

        • Certificate Final Exam

          Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

          To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.

          Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.