Group Conflict

Exploring Forming and Storming in Group Work

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate how learners perceive the phases of the emergence and storming of group conflicts. The study is based on Tuckman's model, which proposes four phases of group development: Forming, Storming, Norming and Performing. However, the study focuses only on the Forming and Storming phases. In the study, a questionnaire developed on the basis of the Tuckman model was distributed to 59 respondents. The forming phase is about putting together the structure of the team, whereby the team members seek acceptance and are guided by a group leader. The storming phase is characterised by conflict and the need for conflict resolution. The study found that some teams never progress beyond the storming phase. Educational implications include assigning roles, emphasising goal definition, and setting clear expectations. Future research can examine the factors for effective group work, the role of global competence, and the impact of group developmental stages on dynamics.