An evaluation of three feedback methods for increasing group process skills in a Variation II training laboratory

A Variation II training laboratory similar in approach to Blake's Instrumented T-Group was implemented in conjunction with a senior level management course in human relations. Twelve one-and-one-half hour laboratory sessions were conducted. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of three methods for providing laboratory participants feedback concerning their performance on selected variables. The three methods developed to accomplish this objective were: [bullet point] Process Reports. Each participant wrote a concise, one-page report on his group's process during most laboratory sessions. The report was scored, written comments by three judges attached, and returned to the participant. [bullet point] Group Vignette. Each group periodically observed another group briefly focused on and, immediately subsequent to the observation, discussed among themselves the observed process. [bullet point] Video Tape Playback. Each group observed selected segments of their own group interaction immediately following the training laboratory session, and discussed among themselves the observed process. Each selected treatment met each of two criteria. First it was feasible within the constraints imposed on a university undergraduate program. Second, it was consistent with a practice-feedback-practice training model. This model, appropriate to the learning of complex psycho-motor skills, is assumed also to be appropriate for acquisition of complex social skills. It provides for the participant to attain cognitive awareness of a process element, receive information concerning means of responding, practice in responding, receive feedback concerning responses effectiveness, opportunity for modification of the response, and solidification of the response. Lewin's basic unfreeze-change-refreeze model of change induction is the underlying theoretical support for the variation II training laboratory implemented. ..