Study On Group Dynamics In Second Language Class

Group dynamics is usually defined as a 'field of inquiry dedicated to advancing knowledge about the nature of groups, the laws of their development, and their interrelations with individuals, other groups, and larger institutions' (Cartrwright & Zander, 1968:7). Group dynamics is a factor of great significance in second language class; it can make all the difference when it comes to successful learning experiences and outcomes. During the developmental stages of groups from formation to dissolution, group dynamics at group formation stage possesses its special significance, since it will exert a great influence on the dynamic state of the class at the later stages. Thus, this paper mainly focuses on group dynamics in second language class, especially at group formation stage, intending to provide some useful information for teachers to stimulate group dynamics of their classes on the first few days.Groups can be formed due to the influence of various factors, such as: personal needs and interpersonal attraction (Forsyth, 1990). These factors can carry students into second language class, and at the same time can probably play a positive role in the development of group dynamics. However, students at group formation stage are often anxious and nervous; they are likely to be on guard when conducting various activities; thus, second language class is often lack of dynamics at group formation stage, which is typically reflected in such three aspects as communication, conflict and cohesiveness. After a case study on 94 students in three new second language classes with the measurement of observation on communication and conflict and self-report on cohesiveness, we can come to the conclusion that at group formation stage students cannot deal with communication contents, patterns and skills effectively, they cannot take advantage of the emerging conflicts to find possible problems and according solutions, and they have not built up cohesiveness in class. Such static state of second language class impairs the implementation of various learning tasks; however, this state is not irremediable, since its emergence is largely determined by some factors which can be manipulated by us. Intermember relations, group norms and group goals are the most influential factors affecting group dynamics at group formation stage, which can have both positive and negative effects on second language class (D?rnyei & Malderez, 1999). Thus, what teachers should do is to take effective strategies to make these factors provide facilitation for the stimulation of group dynamics. Teachers can help students establish harmonious intermember relations, form reasonable group norms and set profitable group goals. With teachers' help, students can be more active to carry out learning tasks in second language class.Second language class can be stimulated with more dynamics at group formation stage. Thus, teachers should give more thought to the dynamic state of their classes, and put their efforts in stimulating group dynamics at the very beginning. What teachers do on the first few days may benefit students during their whole life in second language class.