Group Dynamics & Facilitation Flashcards
7 cards from real CRA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Group Dynamics & Facilitation flashcards as text
Which factor most strongly influences a group's 'norms'?
Answer: Early behaviors and expectations established during the forming stage
Norms are largely set by behaviors and expectations that emerge early in a group's formation and then persist as unwritten rules.
What is the concept of 'optimal challenge' in group activity facilitation?
Answer: Choosing tasks just beyond participants' current comfort zone to promote growth
Optimal challenge, related to Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development, means tasks that stretch abilities slightly to promote engagement and growth.
During a cooperative game, one team dominates and the other loses motivation. What adjustment should the aide make?
Answer: Rebalance teams or modify scoring to re-engage all participants
Rebalancing or modifying the game structure maintains challenge and engagement for everyone rather than letting one outcome discourage participants.
Which communication technique should a recreation aide use to verify they understood a participant's concern correctly?
Answer: Reflective listening — paraphrase and confirm the participant's message
Reflective listening confirms understanding, shows empathy, and prevents miscommunication from escalating.
A group member is acting as an informal leader and steering the group away from the planned activity. What should the aide do?
Answer: Acknowledge their energy and redirect it by giving them a constructive facilitation role
Channeling an informal leader's energy into a positive role uses their influence productively and maintains program objectives.
What is 'psychological safety' in a group recreation setting?
Answer: Participants' belief that they can take social risks without fear of embarrassment or rejection
Psychological safety allows participants to try new things, make mistakes, and express themselves without fear of judgment, enhancing engagement.
Why should a recreation aide vary activity structures (individual, pairs, small groups, large groups) across a session?
Answer: To address different social needs and learning styles and prevent fatigue from one structure
Varying group structures keeps energy dynamic, accommodates introverts and extroverts alike, and prevents boredom through routine.