Toward an Understanding of Macrocognition in Teams: Predicting Processes in Complex Collaborative Contexts

    Authors

    S. M. Fiore; M. A. Rosen; K. A. Smith-Jentsch; E. Salas; M. Letsky;N. Warner

    Comments

    Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at [email protected]

    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Hum. Factors

    Keywords

    MEDICAL DECISION-MAKING; SHARED MENTAL MODELS; TRANSACTIVE MEMORY; COGNITIVE ARTIFACTS; GROUP-PERFORMANCE; EXTENDED MIND; REPRESENTATIONS; COMMUNICATION; METAANALYSIS; INFORMATION; Behavioral Sciences; Engineering, Industrial; Ergonomics; Psychology, ; Applied; Psychology

    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.

    Journal Title

    Human Factors

    Volume

    52

    Issue/Number

    2

    Publication Date

    1-1-2010

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    203

    Last Page

    224

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000281796800006

    ISSN

    0018-7208

    Share

    COinS
     

    Accessibility Statement

    This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.