Abstract
Objective: This article presents a model for predicting complex collaborative processes as they arise in one-of-a-kind problem-solving situations to predict performance outcomes. The goal is to outline a set of key processes and their interrelationship and to describe how these can be used to predict collaboration processes embedded within problem-solving contexts. Background: Teams are increasingly called upon to address complex problem-solving tasks in novel situations. This represents a domain of performance that to date has been underrepresented in the research literature. Method: Multidisciplinary theoretical and empirical literature relating to knowledge work in teams is synthesized. Results: A set of propositions developed to guide research into how teams externalize cognition and build knowledge in service of problem solving is presented. First, a brief overview of macrocognition in teams is provided to distinguish the present work from other views of team cognition. Second, a description of the foundational theoretical concepts driving the theory of macrocognition in teams presented here is provided. Third, a set of propositions described within the context of a model of macrocognition in teams is forwarded. Conclusion: The theoretical framework described in this article provides a set of empirically testable propositions that can ultimately guide practitioners in efforts to support macrocognition in teams. Application: A theory of macrocognition in teams can provide guidance for the development of training interventions and the design of collaborative tools to facilitate knowledge-based performance in teams.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 203-224 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | Human Factors |
Volume | 52 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2010 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- collaborative problem solving
- externalized cognition
- knowledge building
- knowledge-based team performance
- macrocognition in teams
- naturalistic decision making
- team cognition
- team performance
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Human Factors and Ergonomics
- Applied Psychology
- Behavioral Neuroscience