Can’t We Pick our Own Groups? The Influence of Group Selection Method on Group Dynamics and Outcomes

Abstract

In today’s business world, the ability to work efficiently and effectively with others in a group is a mandatory skill. Many employers rank “ability to work with a group” as one of the most important attributes for business school graduates to possess. Therefore, it is important for instructors to understand the factors that influence group dynamics and outcomes and students’ attitudes toward group experiences. The objective of this research is to test whether the method of group member assignment (i.e., random or self-selected) affects the nature of group dynamics and outcomes, and students’ attitudes toward the group experience. The results indicate that the method of group member assignment does influence group dynamics, attitudes toward the group experience, and group outcomes.