TRAIN THE TRAINER

Group Dynamics

Tuckman's 5 Stage Model

Group dynamics describes how people in

groups act and react to changing
circumstances.

Bruce Wayne
Tuckman
Developed 5
Stage Model of
Group
Development.

Model is relevant
for trainers and
training groups

Stages of Group Development

Forming

Adjourning

Performing

Storming

Norming

Trainers monitor how groups move through different stages.

Forming
Adjourni
ng

Forming

Performi
ng

Stormin
g

Norming

Forming Behaviours
Desire to be accepted by others
Very dependent on leader
Nothing much gets done
Taking in information
Forming impressions of each other
Roles and responsibilities are unclear

Forming
Adjourni
ng

Forming - Trainer Role

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Provide information
Allow time for introductions
Encourage questions
Outline goals or objectives
Provide backup or support materials

Performi
ng

Stormin
g

Norming

Storming

Storming Behaviours
Making demands on other group members
Potential leaders may emerge
Cliques may form
May be some conflict or disagreement
Testing boundaries and limits
Focus on small details to evade real issues
Competing voices and opinions

Storming- Trainer Role

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

6.

Expect some disagreement

Watch for formation of cliques
Encourage sharing of opinions
Acknowledge differences
Focus on facilitation within the parameters
of the training
Identify real issues

Norming

Norming Behaviours
Group members support each other
Compromises and agreements
Resistance to change in rules or agreements
Discussion on group processes and style
Formation of sub groups to accomplish tasks
Group engage in social activities
Shared understanding of goals

Norming- Trainer Role

1.
2.

3.
4.
5.

Clarify your expectations of the group

Use a coaching style to develop groups
potential
Provide opportunities for leadership
Give and receive feedback on progress
Watch for group reverting to Storming

Performing

Performing Behaviours
Group members trust each other
Energy of group is focussed on achievement

of task or goal
Little conflict
Working without external supervision
Different opinions are permitted & expected
Group decision making

Trainer Role
1.
2.
3.
4.

Facilitator rather than director

Provide opportunities for growth
Provide feedback on progress
Delegate responsibility and tasks

Adjourning

Adjourning behaviours
Commenting on end of relationships
May be some stress or anxiety regarding

termination of group
Maturity regarding group processes
Fear of leaving the safety of the group

Adjourning Trainer Role

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Recognise what has been achieved

Codify or capture learning
Ensure transfer of learning
Prepare for group sense of loss
Facilitate opportunity to say goodbye and
exchange contact information

Importance of Model for Trainers

Helpful starting point for managing groups
May identify which stage the group is at
Trainer can consider what needs to be done at

each stage
Allocate sufficient time for each stage
Communicate progress
Reflect on own role and leadership style

Guidance for Trainers

Dont tolerate bad behaviour in storming

stage
Avoid using model as self fulfilling prophecy
There will be overlap in different stages
Discuss model with group
Investigate other models

A Really Useful Guide

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