Disc. Sept 24-30 Question 1

Using a consultant or an observer for a small group is very important. For starters, they are more than likely professional or knowledgeable in the area of the group’s objectives or roles that are to be observed. Being professional or knowledgeable, they would have a firm grasp of the observer feedback guidelines and be able to provide feedback based on prior experience. They will be entering without the stereotypes or biases already formed within the small group. The observer would not know who typically dominates the conversations, or who typically remains quiet or disengaged. Without these group norms established, the observer can give completely unbiased feedback to the group. This unbiased feedback would provide some of the most suggestions for improvement in roles, successes and failures. The group would then be able to reflect on the feedback given and see the areas discussed from a new angle than typically viewed from. Observers provide outside feedback from a disengaged standpoint.