Experiments in Group Decision Making Communication Process and Outcome in Face-to-Face Versus Computerized Conferences

TLDR

A 2×2 factorial design examined face‑to‑face versus computerized conferencing on small group problem‑solving, coding interactions with Bales Interaction Process Analysis. Face‑to‑face groups produced 2–3× more communication units than computerized groups, yet both modes yielded equally good decisions, though agreement was less frequent and task‑oriented communication was proportionally higher in computerized conferences.

Abstract

A 2 × 2 factorial design was used to explore the process and outcome of small group problem-solving discussions for two modes of communication (face-to-face and computerized conferencing) and two types of tasks (a qualitative human relations task and a scientific ranking test with a criterion solution). Interaction process was coded using Bales Interaction Process Analysis. There were two to three times as many communication units in the face to-face groups consisting of five members each as in the computerized conferencing mode of communication during the same elapsed time. Group decisions were equally good in the two modes, but the groups were less likely to reach agreement in the computerized conferencing mode. There were proportionately more of the types of task-oriented communication associated with decision quality in the computerized conferences.