An analysis of distributional and sequential structure in problem‐solving and informal group discussions

Abstract

This paper examines the differences in the structure of informal and problem‐solving discussions. Structure was defined as the relative frequency of occurrence of given classifications of discussion statements, both as a proportion of the total number of statements made (distributional structure) and as a proportion of the total number of statements following statements of each classificational type (sequential structure). The statements of four groups which participated in both types of discussion were classified into five categories: (1) Initiates and Develops a Theme, (2) Expresses Agreement, (3) Expresses Disagreement, (4) Gives Information, and (5) Asks for Information.