Final answer:
c) forming.The first stage in group development is 'forming,' where group members meet and begin to understand the tasks ahead. Reference groups shape individual behavior through shared norms and values. Agenda setting is crucial in the public policy process for identifying issues that require attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first stage in group development is forming. This stage involves the process where the group members are first introduced, start to know each other, and begin to understand the tasks at hand. It is during this stage that group norms and structures begin to form and it often involves a sense of cautiousness as members are not yet familiar with each other.As for the questions provided for reference, a reference group is a group whose values, norms, and beliefs come to serve as a standard for one's own behavior. The example of collective behavior could be a class going on a field trip, as it involves a group of individuals participating in a coordinated activity. Informational social influence is more likely when the answer is unclear and when the group has expertise.Regarding the public policy process, agenda setting is the stage that includes the identification of problems in need of fixing.
Collaborative group activities in a classroom setting are important as they encourage discussion and diverse viewpoints, especially on large concepts such as the origin and fate of the universe. Such discussions can be either exciting or cause apprehension depending on individual beliefs and attitudes towards the subject.In this stage, group members come together and start to understand the goals and objectives of the group. They also begin to establish relationships and establish a sense of trust and belonging. This is the initial stage where individuals join a group and start to get to know each other.