UNIVERSITY OF KARACHI

GUIDANCE AND
COUNSELLING (632)

ASSIGNMENT: Group Guidance Activities

SUBMITTED BY: Humna Abrar,

Mashal, Maheen, Bushra Sarfraz,
Nazish, Mariuam Akhter, Dilawaiz,
Asma Sher, Fareeha, Kamran, Saba Nisar

SUBMISSION DATE: 6-9 -2023

SUBMITTED TO:
MA’AM AZIZ UN NISA

BS FINAL YEAR (MORNING)

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
GROUP GUIDANCE ACTIVITY
A group guidance activity is a structured and interactive session designed to
help individuals in a group setting explore and address various personal,
academic, or social challenges. These activities are typically facilitated by a
trained counselor, teacher, or group leader and aim to promote self-awareness,
build interpersonal skills, and provide support within the group. Group
guidance activities can cover a wide range of topics, including career
exploration, stress management, communication skills, and more. They often
involve discussions, exercises, and collaborative tasks to encourage
participation and learning among group members.
Group guidance activity is a type of guidance that is provided to a group of
students rather than to an individual student. Group guidance activities can be
used to address a variety of topics, such as academics, career, social-emotional
development, and life skills.
 Definitions
Group guidance activity is a process in which a group of students work together
with a facilitator to explore a particular topic or issue. The facilitator helps the
group to learn about the topic, to share their thoughts and feelings, and to
develop strategies for coping with challenges.
Group guidance activity is defined as a structured session facilitated by a
counselor or group leader, which aims to promote personal growth,
development, and support among individuals in a group setting. It involves
interactive and experiential techniques like discussion, role-playing, problem-
solving, and experiential learning to address the specific needs and goals of the
participants (McAuliffe, 2018).

Crow and Crow:

“Guidance in group situations usually is thought of as referring to those
guidance services that are made available by school personnel to large or small
groups of pupils.”

History

Group guidance activities have a rich history dating back to the early 20th
century. Here are some key developments:
Early 1900s:
The origins of group guidance can be traced to the work of Frank Parsons, who
is often considered the father of guidance counselling. He introduced the
concept of vocational guidance and emphasised the importance of helping
individuals make informed career choices.
1930 to 1940s:
As interest in counselling and guidance grew, educators and psychologists
began experimenting with group-based approaches. This period saw the
emergence of group counselling as a method to address the personal and
educational needs of students.
1950 to 1960s:
The field of group guidance continued to evolve, influenced by the work of
theorists like Carl Rogers and Kurt Lewin. Rogers' person-centred approach and
Lewin's work on group dynamics had a significant impact on the development
of group counselling techniques.
1970s to 1980s:
During this era, group guidance activities expanded beyond career counselling
to include personal development, mental health support, and educational
interventions. Group counselling became an essential component of school
counselling programs.
1990s to present:
Group guidance activities have continued to adapt and diversify. They are used
in various settings, including schools, colleges, community organisations, and
therapeutic contexts. The focus has expanded to address issues such as bullying
prevention, substance abuse, and social-emotional learning.
Technology Integration: In recent years, advancements in technology have
allowed for online group guidance sessions and virtual support groups, making
these activities more accessible and convenient.
Today, group guidance activities encompass a wide range of topics and
populations, with a growing emphasis on promoting holistic well-being and
personal development. They remain an important tool for helping individuals
navigate the challenges of life and education while fostering interpersonal skills
and mutual support.
 Nature

Group guidance activities are typically led by a trained facilitator who has
expertise in the topic being discussed. The facilitator creates a safe and
supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts
and feelings. The facilitator also helps the group to stay on track and to achieve
their goals.
Scope:
Group guidance activities can be used to address a wide range of topics,
including:
● Academics
● Career development
● Social-emotional development
● Life skills
● Substance abuse prevention
● Bullying prevention
● Healthy relationships
● Mental health awareness
● Stress management
● Self-esteem building

Characteristics

Group guidance activities typically involve a counselor or facilitator working

with a group of individuals to achieve specific goals or outcomes. Here are
some key characteristics of group guidance activities:
Group Interaction: Participants interact with each other, providing
opportunities for peer support, sharing experiences, and learning from one
another.
Structured Format: Group guidance activities often have a planned structure
or agenda, which may include icebreakers, discussions, activities, and
debriefing.
Common Goals: Participants share
common goals or objectives, such as
personal growth, skill development, or
problem-solving.
Facilitator's Role: A facilitator or
counselor guides the group, maintains
focus, and ensures that the session stays
on track.
Supportive Environment: Group
guidance activities create a safe and
supportive space where participants can
express themselves without judgment.
Learning Opportunities: Participants learn from the facilitator, from each
other's experiences, and through activities designed to address specific issues or
goals.
Feedback and Reflection: Participants are encouraged to provide feedback,
reflect on their experiences, and gain insights into their own behavior and
feelings.
Skill Development: Depending on the purpose of the group, participants may
develop various skills, such as communication, problem-solving, or stress
management.
Sharing and Empathy: Group members often share their thoughts, feelings,
and challenges, fostering empathy and understanding among participants.
Duration and Consistency: Group guidance activities may be conducted over
several sessions to allow for continuous learning and progress.
Confidentiality: Participants typically agree to maintain confidentiality within
the group to create a trusting atmosphere.
Evaluation: The effectiveness of group guidance activities is often assessed
through feedback, self-assessment, or specific outcome measures.
These characteristics help create a supportive and productive environment for
individuals to work together towards their personal or group goals.
 Benefits

Group guidance activities can offer a number of benefits for students, including:

★ Improved social-emotional skills

★ Increased self-esteem

★ Enhanced problem-solving and decision-making skills

★ Improved communication skills

★ Reduced stress and anxiety

★ Increased self-confidence

★ Development of coping strategies

Needs and Importance of group guidance activity

Group guidance activities are designed to meet various needs, including:

1. Social Interaction:
Group activities provide opportunities for individuals to interact with peers,
reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
2. Peer support:
People often need the support and empathy of others who may be
experiencing similar challenges or facing common issues.
3. Skill development:
Participants can acquire and enhance a wide range of skills, including
communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
4. Self-Awareness:
Group discussions and activities promote self-reflection, helping individuals
become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
5. Normalization:
Many people benefit from realizing that their struggles or concerns are
shared by others, reducing the stigma associated with their challenges.
6. Learning Opportunities:
Group guidance activities can provide valuable information, education, and
resources related to specific topics or issues.
7. Emotional Support:
 Sharing emotions and experiences within a group setting can lead to
emotional catharsis and provide a sense of relief.

Role
Group guidance activities play an important role in the educational process.
They can help students to develop the skills and knowledge they need to
succeed in school, in their careers, and in their personal lives. They can also
help students to build healthy relationships and to cope with challenges.

Stages
Group guidance activities typically follow a four-stage process:
1. Orientation: The facilitator introduces the activity and explains the purpose
of the group.
2. Exploration: The group discusses the two hupic at hand and shares their
thoughts and feelings.
3. Consolidation: The group summarizes what they have learned and develops
strategies for coping with challenges.
4. Evaluation: The group evaluates the activity and discusses what they have
gained from it.
5. Theory: There are a number of theories that support the use of group
guidance activities. These theories include:
a. Social learning.
This theory states that people learn by observing and imitating the behavior of
others. Group guidance activities can provide students with opportunities to
observe and imitate the behavior of positive role models.
b. Cognitive-behavioral theory:
This theory states that people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all
interconnected. Group guidance activities can help students to identify and
challenge negative thoughts and to develop more positive coping strategies.
c. Humanistic theory:
This theory states that people are motivated to achieve their full potential.
Group guidance activities can help students to develop a positive self-image and
to set and achieve goals.

Group Guidance Activities

Group guidance activities can encompass a wide range of interactive and
educational activities designed to promote personal growth, self-awareness, and
skill development within a group setting. Here are some common types of
activities used in group guidance:
1. Discussion Groups:
These involve open discussions on various topics such as goal setting, decision-
making, conflict resolution, or career exploration. Group members can share
their experiences and insights.
2. Role Playing:
Role-playing exercises help group members practice social and communication
skills, conflict resolution, or decision-making in a safe and controlled
environment.
3. Problem Solving Activities:
Group member’s work together to solve hypothetical or real-life problems,
fostering critical thinking and teamwork.
4. Peer Support Groups:
These groups provide a platform for individuals facing similar challenges, such
as grief, addiction, or mental health issues, to support each other.
5. Skill Building Workshops:
Workshops can focus on specific skills like time management, stress
management, study skills, or communication skills.
6. Career Exploration:
Activities related to career planning, such as job shadowing, resume building,
or mock interviews, can help individuals make informed decisions about their
future.
7. Art or Creative Expression:
Creative activities like art therapy, music therapy, or journaling can be used to
encourage self-expression and emotional exploration.
8. Icebreakers and Team Building Games:
These activities help group members get to know each other, build trust, and
strengthen group cohesion.
9. Educational Presentation:
Guest speakers or experts may give presentations on relevant topics, providing
valuable insights and information to group members.
10. Goal setting and Tracking: Group members can set personal goals and
receive feedback and support from the group in achieving them.

Example

Of course! Here's a detailed plan for a group guidance activity:

Activity Title: Building Effective Communication Skills
Objective: To enhance participants' communication skills and promote
teamwork and collaboration.
Duration: 60 minutes
Materials Needed:
Whiteboard or flipchart and markers
Handout materials (communication tips, scenarios, etc.)
Small prizes or rewards (optional)
Step 1: Introduction (5 minutes)
Welcome participants and explain the purpose of the activity.
Emphasize the importance of effective communication in personal and
professional life.
Step 2: Icebreaker (10 minutes)
Conduct an icebreaker activity to help participants get to know each other
better. This can be a simple game or a round of introductions.

Step 3: Communication Tips (10 minutes)

Present a list of key communication tips on the whiteboard or hand out a
handout with these tips.
Discuss each tip briefly and encourage participants to share their thoughts or
experiences related to effective communication.
Step 4: Role Play (20 minutes)
Divide participants into small groups (3-4 people per group).
Provide each group with a communication scenario (e.g., resolving a conflict,
giving constructive feedback).
Ask each group to role-play the scenario while applying the communication tips
discussed earlier.
After each role play, have a brief group discussion to reflect on what went well
and what could be improved.
Step 5: Group Discussion (10 minutes)
Bring all participants back together and facilitate a discussion about the role-
plays.
Encourage participants to share their observations and insights from the role-
play exercises.
Discuss common challenges and effective strategies for better communication.
Step 6: Conclusion and Rewards (5 minutes)
Summarize the key takeaways from the activity.
If desired, reward participants with small prizes or tokens of appreciation for
their active participation.
Step 7: Action Plan (5 minutes)
Ask participants to set personal goals for improving their communication skills.
Encourage them to share their goals with the group for accountability.

Step 8: Closing (5 minutes)

Thank participants for their participation and engagement.
Provide any additional resources or references on communication skills if
available.

How do I choose the right group guidance activity for my

students?
 When choosing a group guidance activity, it is important to consider the age
and needs of your students. You should also consider the topic that you want to
address. There are many resources available online that can help you to find the
right group guidance activity for your students.
How do I prepare for a group guidance activity?
It is important to prepare for a group guidance activity by reviewing the
activity, gathering any materials that you will need, and setting up the space.
You should also make sure that you are familiar with the group dynamics and
that you have a plan for how to manage any challenges that may arise.

How do I facilitate a group guidance activity?

The facilitator should be warm, supportive,
and non-judgmental. The facilitator should
also be able to create a safe and supportive
environment where students feel
comfortable sharing their thoughts and
feelings. The facilitator should also be able
to guide the discussion and help the group to
stay on track.
How do I evaluate a group guidance
activity?
It is important to evaluate a group
guidance activity to determine its
effectiveness. You can do this by asking
the students for feedback, observing the
group dynamics, and reviewing the goals of the activity. You can also use a
variety of assessment tools to evaluate the activity.

How to choose the right group guidance activity for your students?

Consider the age and needs of your students:

 1. When choosing a group guidance activity, it is important to consider the age
and needs of your students. You should also consider the topic that you want
to address.
2. Find the right resource:

There are many resources available online that can help you to find the right
group guidance activity for your students.

How to prepare for a group guidance activity?

1. Review the activity:

It is important to review the activity before you lead it. This will help you to
understand the purpose of the activity and how to facilitate it.
2. Gather materials:
If necessary, gather any materials that you will need for the activity.
3. Set up the space: Set up the space in a way that will create a safe and
supportive environment for the group.
4. be familiar with the group dynamics:
Be familiar with the group dynamics so that you can anticipate any challenges
that may arise.
5. Have a plan:
Have a plan for how to manage any challenges that may arise.

How to facilitate a group guidance activity?

★ Be warm and supportive:

The facilitator should be warm and supportive throughout the activity.
Create a safe space: The facilitator should create a safe space where students
feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.

★ Guide the discussion:

The facilitator should guide the discussion and help the group to stay on track.

★ Encourage participation:

The facilitator should encourage all students to participate in the activity.

★ Be respectful:

The facilitator should be respectful of all students' contributions.

How to evaluate a group guidance activity?

★ Ask for feedback: Ask the students for feedback on the activity. This will
help you to determine how effective the activity was.
★ Observe the group dynamics:
Observe the group dynamics to see how the students interacted with each
other and with the facilitator.
★ Review the goals of the activity:

Review the goals of the activity to see if they were met.

★ Use assessment tools:

Use assessment tools to evaluate the activity.

 CONCLUSION

Overall, the specific needs addressed by group guidance activities can

vary widely depending on the goals and focus of the group, whether
it's related to personal development, academic success, career
planning, or addressing specific challenges like substance abuse or
mental health concerns. Group members can engage in self-
assessment exercises to better understand their strengths, weaknesses,
and areas for personal growth. This activity aims to improve
communication skills through interactive role-playing and
discussions, fostering better teamwork and collaboration among
participants. The choice of activities will depend on the goals of the
group guidance program and the needs of the participants. These
activities aim to enhance interpersonal skills, boost self-esteem, and
provide individuals with tools to navigate various life challenges.
Examples of group guidance activities include workshops, support
groups, team-building exercises, educational seminars, and
counseling sessions conducted in a group format. These activities can
be highly effective in addressing a wide range of personal and
professional development goals.

References:
Books:
● Group Guidance: A Practical Approach for School Counselors by William C.
Claiborn
● Book Group Guidance Activities for Schools and Youth Groups
● Group Guidance: A Foundation for Practice by John J. Conyne and
Associates
● Group Guidance: A Comprehensive Handbook by James P. Garbarino and
Associates
● McAuliffe, G. (2018). Group Counseling and Group Guidance Activities: A
New Approach. Journal of Counseling and Development: JCD, 96(1), 86-87.
doi:10.1002/jcad.12224• "Group Counseling: Strategies and Skills" by Ed E.
Jacobs, Robert L. L. Masson, and Riley L. Harvill:
● "The Counseling Dictionary: Concise Definitions of Frequently Used
Terms" by Samuel T. Gladding:

● "Developmental Career Counseling and Assessment" by Mark L. Savicka

● Groups: Process and Practice by Marianne Schneider Corey and Gerald

Corey.

● The Handbook of Group Counseling and Psychotherapy edited by Janice L.

DeLucia-Waack, Cynthia R. Kalodner, and Maria T. Riva.

● The Skilled Facilitator: A Comprehensive Resource for Consultants,

Facilitators, Managers, Trainers, and Coaches by Roger Schwarz.

● Group Guidance: A Practical Approach for School Counselors by William C.

Claiborn
● Book Group Guidance Activities for Schools and Youth Groups
● Group Guidance: A Foundation for Practice by John J. Conyne and
Associates
● Group Guidance: A Comprehensive Handbook by James P. Garbarino and
Associates

● Articles

● Article Group Guidance Activities for Social-Emotional Learning

● Article Group Guidance Activities for Career Development
● Article Group Guidance Activities for Life
● Influence of group function and canine guidance on electromyographic
activity of elevator muscles
● Arturo Manns, Clifford Chan, Rodolfo Miralles
● The Journal of prosthetic dentistry 57 (4), 494-501, 1987
● Activity group guidance: Process and results
● Bill W Hillman, Keith B Runion
● Elementary School Guidance & Counseling 13 (2), 104-111, 1978
● Improving Student Achievement Through Group Guidance Services with
Self-Management Techniques
● Lahmuddin Lubis, Nurussakinah Daulay, Zainuddin Zainuddin
● Nidhomul Haq: Jurnal Manajemen Pendidikan Islam 7 (2), 201-216, 2022
● The development of a group guidance module for student self-development
based on gestalt theory
● Mohammad Aziz Shah Mohamed Arip, Rapidah Binti A Bakar, Aslina Binti
Ahmad, Samsiah Md Jais
● Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences 84, 1310-1316, 2013
● Activity group guidance: A developmental approach
● Bill W Hillman, John T Penczar, Reginald Barr
● The Personnel and Guidance Journal 53 (10), 761-767, 1975
● Group guidance services based on folklore for students Junior High School
● Agus Supriyanto, Amien Wahyudi
● IJIET (International Journal of Indonesian Education and Teaching) 2 (1),
37-46, 2018