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Group dynamic processes in email groups

Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, UK, e.alpay{at}imperial.ac.uk

Discussion is given on the relevance of group dynamic processes in promoting decision-making in email discussion groups. General theories on social facilitation and social loafing are considered in the context of email groups, as well as the applicability of psychodynamic and interaction-based models. It is argued that such theories may indeed provide insight into email group interactions, but that communication limitations may severely hinder the effectiveness, and possibly the natural evolution, of email-based groups. Based on the various theoretical perspectives on group dynamics, some general recommendations are provided on promoting effective email groups, which include the set-up of communication and decision protocols, the cogent use of a group facilitator, and where possible, the supplementary use of face-to-face interactions.

Key Words: email groups • group dynamics • interaction model • psychodynamic model

Active Learning in Higher Education, Vol. 6, No. 1, 7-16 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/1469787405049942


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