Explain Tuckman's group development model, including its five stages

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: Sample student response:

One of the most commonly used and cited models of small group development is Tuckman's five-stage group development model.

Forming—the group forms its identity, seeks the leader's guidance and direction, learns about the group task, and determines member roles. Here, they learn about each other and avoid conflicts.

Storming—the group becomes comfortable and starts focusing on its goal. Power and relationship issues emerge and this stage can be filled with arguments, posturing for leadership, and anxiety over uncertainty of the group and task. This stage can be uncomfortable but is necessary for cohesion and creativity. Respect of the individual is important. The group leader must calmly manage, set time limits, and give a voice to all members.

Norming—occurs after the conflict phase is expressed and addressed. Here, members identify their goal and outline necessary tasks and assignments. They take ownership of the group decision. Rules are formulated and the group begins to establish and use implicit norm behavior to regulate the process.

Performing—the "real work" phase during which the group conducts the work necessary to make a decision or solve a problem and implement the outcome. This should be a highly motivated, empowered, and energized stage with reduced uncertainty if possible.

Terminating/Reforming—marks the end point for the entire group. It has done its task and either disbands or reforms with a new goal. It might end with a significant ritual, for example, the formal rollout event of a new product or an informal gathering at a local restaurant to mark the event.