Title: Psychological safety in groups
Course: Reference Course Group Work > Section: Curious on more about groups and group development?

Q: The following things are all important to show commitment to a group. Which of these do you believe is most important if you have to choose one?
- That you are mentally present and focus on the discussion. For example, you do not check your cell phone or surf the computer while someone is talking.
- That you as a group member ask questions to learn from other group members.
- That you contribute to the discussion is active and shows that you listen.
- Saying something to show commitment. For example, "It makes sense, can you tell me more?"
- That you are aware of your body language; that you leans forward and looks at the person talking.
- Have eye contact with the person who is talking to show that you are actively listening.
A: That you are mentally present and focus on the discussion. For example, you do not check your cell phone or surf the computer while someone is talking.; That you as a group member ask questions to learn from other group members.

Q: Below you will find a number of ways to show understanding in group. Which of the tips, one or more, will you focus on during this group work?
- Recount what has been said to confirm that everyone understands it the same way (“What you just said was to…") find areas where you agree or disagree and are open to questions in the group.
- Through affirmative comments ("I understand", "I understand what you mean")
- Avoid blaming ("Why did you do that?"). Focus instead on solutions ("What can we do together to make things easier next time?")
- Think about your facial expression, is it negative without you thinking about it? (like looking angry or grumpy)
- Nod during discussions and meetings to show that you understand.
A: Recount what has been said to confirm that everyone understands it the same way (“What you just said was to…") find areas where you agree or disagree and are open to questions in the group.

Q: Which of the following advices do you think has the most impact for everyone to feel included?
- Share information about how you work best, encourage your team members to do the same.
- Be available to the group members, for example, by taking the time to talk to someone in the group who needs it. Give feedback or advice if anyone in the group asks for it.
- If you have meetings in addition to the ones you have scheduled, then the purpose of the meeting must be clearly communicated.
- Express gratitude for the contribution from the group.
- Speak up if some group members talk bad about another group member.
- Have an open body language (look at all group members and do not turn your back on some of the group).
A: Share information about how you work best, encourage your team members to do the same.

Q: How to make decisions varies between different groups. If a project manager / group leader is the one who decides, that person should be inclusive. Here are four ways that contribute to it. Which of the tips do you think is the most important?
- Get input, opinions and feedback from the group members.
- Do not interrupt, and do not allow anyone else to interrupt (Speak up when someone is interrupted and assure them that his / her idea has been heard.)
- Explain the reason behind the decision (on a meeting or by email, describe the reasoning that led to the decision).
- Confirm input from others (highlighted when team members contributed to a success or a decision).
A: Get input, opinions and feedback from the group members.