Group dynamics

Group dynamics (/gru:p daɪnæmɪks/) is the study of groups, and also a general term for group processes. A “group" is defined as two or more individuals who are connected to each other by some sort of social relationship.

Fundamental to the fields of psychology, sociology, and communication studies, it is particularly relevant to teaching.

Because students interact and influence each other, classes develop a number of dynamic processes that separate them from a random collection of individuals.

Aspects which teachers should be aware of when planning courses and during classtime include: patterns of communication and coordination, roles and relationships, and last but not least, conflict resolution.

The term was coined by Kurt Lewin, one of the founders of social psychology, and one of the first researchers to study group dynamics and organizational development.