ABSTRACT
Small groups are a good format for encouraging participants to interact, explore and develop ideas and challenge preconceived beliefs. Small group work promotes critical and logical thinking as part of a problem-solving approach. It is a useful approach when building up a team to help group members to understand why other members hold different views and what 'make them tick'. Limit the numbers in a small group to twelve, but preferably six or eight. Appoint a small group leader or a facilitator who is skilled at handling group dynamics. Start the small group work by welcoming everybody in order to create a positive atmosphere in the group. The small group may be ill-balanced, with some members forming an excluding clique that stifles discussion and exchange of ideas. Too little time is allowed for the small group work to address the set task. Participants may have hostile, preconceived views about the small group approach.
