Use of Technology in the Study of Team-Interaction and Performance

Abstract

Direct observation of groups is labor-intensive. As a result, current research on small groups often relies on retrospective ratings. Recent developments in sensor-technology have eased data gathering, leading to a renewed interest in direct observation of groups. Sensor technology has potential, but also limitations; research has been technology- and data-driven with less recognition of the large body, and long history, of research and theory building. We review the literature on technology in small group research, argue for more interdisciplinary research and propose combining sensor technology with methods of interaction analysis, and the theories that underlie them, developed prior to 1980.