Learning Environment for Undergraduates to Enhance Spontaneous Growth of Communication Skills : Effects of group size

Abstract

This study examined the effects of participation order and group size on discussion training of the autonomous dialogue, which means communication skills for discussing spontaniously without third person's help in a group of about 6 members. Measures for the effectiveness of discussion were self evaluation on rating scales. Participants were 89 undergraduates. They rated their own and others' discussion in 7 dimensions: honesty, equity, activeness, diversity, depth, management, and cumulativeness. As a result, the activeness component was most facilitated when the students participated after observing others' activity under the condition that their group size was kept in 6 members all through the sessions or increased gradually. The management component was most enhanced under the condition that their group size was increased gradually.