What readers are saying: "It seemed to me a very useful book, full of practical information which is informed by a larger vision of a cooperative and truly democratic society." - Howard Zinn, American historian and social critic "In a time when 'change' is a concept so much on everyone's lips, it is especially good to be able to read Small Groups: The Process of Change, by William C. Coughlan, Jr. The book is highly readable, informative, and based on years of experience. Many books on change focus on the macro level of the economy and society, and leave out discussion of the processes through which individuals, in their daily lives working with others, bring about change. On the other hand, books which focus on small groups often stress the ways in which the interpersonal interactions in small groups function to maintain the status quo. Coughlan recognizes that change, whether of a small community such as a condo association, or one that affects all of society, occurs through the intentional interactions of small groups. His work is a model handbook of advice on how to effectively use a co-operative model to achieve real change." - Alice L. Savage, PhD, Dean of Academic Affairs, Manchester Community College "After reading your book on small groups, I want to congratulate you on what I find is almost a procedure manual for organizing small entrepreneurial activities. As you know, I am an attorney who does a considerable amount of work with people who are organizing new businesses. I find that the first part of your book is a brief and useful description of the types of people needed to make a small group or committee work. The hands-on samples of problems and solutions are more than useful. They are almost a blueprint of how to get things started and done. "I know you targeted cooperative enterprises as your focus group. But, I think that any small group - informal committees, clubs, small companies - would find this book more than helpful. This book is tightly edited, concise, and to the point, which makes it a quick read for busy people. The small group is often overlooked in management courses. I think this book fills a niche that most people do not even know they need filled. Thank you." - Carole A. Z. Root, Attorney "Great source of information for anyone wanting to bring about change. Reads well, with clear explanations of group organizing and dynamics from the ground up. Highly recommended!" - Brandon S. Cheng "This is a thoughtful, gentle exploration of ways to make your participation in small groups productive. In a refreshing way, William blends practical advice, philosophical understandings, and spiritual enthusiasm, giving the reader the feeling that as we bend to the task of working well in a small group, we are accompanied by William Coughlan as a friend and guide. Strongly recommended to those who work in co-operatives and other organizations that value group process and want to transform the world. - Adam Frost, Co-founder and Member of the Boston Neighborhood Food Co-op "Organizing groups in a way that enables them to function effectively is a challenge. All of us at one time or another have been involved in one that did not work. It is discouraging to have this happen and to be aware of lost opportunities. What William Coughlan offers in this book is clear guidance that makes working in groups a positive experience for everyone concerned. "Two things that the author asks his readers to do is think outside the box and to have respect for multiple viewpoints. He quotes the anonymous saying that the point is not how to interpret the world but how to change it. He feels that the key advantage of the small group is that it maximizes face-to-face interaction and participation. "I particularly liked the way that the book explores group structure and process by very deliberately seeing that each step is explored in a thorough and cohesive manner. The examples offered are rooted in real experience and give the lessons a real resonance. I also appreciated the author's bedrock belief is that group process should be firmly rooted in democratic principles. "This is an excellent teaching tool and reference for all groups." - Catherine Nicosia, Community Bookshelf Manager "Small Groups: The Process of Change by William Coughlan is an accessible, engaging and practical guide to small group organizing and group process. Culled from practical experience in and the study of organizing, cooperatives and the social sciences, the author offers a menu of advice. He brings Jung, the Buddha, the literature of conflict resolution and self efficacy and much else to the table. Citing examples from business practice to left wing praxis, cooperatives to collectives, socialism to sociology; he provides a starting point, platform and process to the potential organizer. A cooperative perspective is applied to define human interdependence leading to synergistic organization for self and society." - Al DeMaria, MD, Boston, Massachusetts "In Small Groups, William Coughlan brings a holistic approach to the social geometry and political dynamics of change-oriented cooperative organizations. Drawing upon a wide range of examples from everyday life and a history of collective organizing, Coughlan carefully examines the complexities and challenges, emotions and culture, promises and difficulties of groups dedicated to cooperative human endeavors and the realization of social justice. This is a compelling and insightful work that informs its readers about what makes effective group actions possible, while alerting change agents to pitfalls that can undermine even the best intentioned of organizational efforts. Steeped in practical wisdom and grounded in cutting-edge theoretical insights, Small Groups is a book that deserves to be read by anyone interested in working together with others to bring about sustained social and organizational change." - Stephen Pfohl, Professor of Sociology, Boston College “Small Groups unveils several avenues to change. One such avenue is through organizing groups–small groups that take into consideration not only the practical aspect of change, but the emotional as well. “The book is easy reading and draws in the reader at the very onset by its simple and step by step presentation. The author reveals the power of small groups by their versatility to be adopted by any existing or new group that desires internal change or bring about change within organizations or society. While primarily presenting the process of change, the book also presents guidelines that incidentally reinforce inner strengths of self determination, reliance, and sufficiency. Mr. Coughlan takes into consideration different learning styles and personality types described in humorous, but realistic stories relevant to all cultures. “Contrary to my expectations, I enjoyed reading the book that can be read on a flight or anywhere else.” -Supriya Draviam, MA, MSSA, LSW Assistant Professor, English Cuyahoga Community College Highland Hills, Ohio Languages: English, Hindi, Telugu "I have recently read a book by William C. Coughlan, Jr. titled Small Groups: The Process of Change. The book is both engaging and informative. He outlines the dynamics of small groups from process, organization, and expectations. He includes short and long range goals. He also examines the journey of small groups. I highly recommend Small Groups: The Process of Change. - Richard Clark, former Postmaster Back to top
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