INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY 3(2+1)

Lesson 6 : Communication Methods & Approaches

Group method

Definition of group: A group may be defined as an aggregate of small number of people in reciprocal communication and interaction around some common interest.

In this method, the extension agent communicates with the people in groups and not as individual persons.

Method applicability

This method is adopted when it is necessary to communicate with a number of people simultaneously, who are located not far off from the communicator.

Examples: Method demonstration, group meeting, small group training. Field day or farmer’s day and study tour.

Advantages:

1. Enables the extension agent to have face- to-face contact with a number of people at a time
2. Can reach a select part of the target group
3. Facilitates sharing of knowledge and experience and thereby strengthen learning of the group members
4. Reach fewer people, but offer more opportunities for interaction and feedback
5. Satisfies the basic urge of people for social contacts
6. Motivate people to accept change due to group influence
7. More effective than mass method in stimulating action
8. Less expensive than individual method due to more coverage

Limitations:

• Wide diversity in the interest of group members may create a difficult learning situation
• Holding the meeting may be regarded as an objective in itself
• Vested interests, caste groups and village factions may hinder free interaction and decision making by the group members