Group formation based on extraversion and prior knowledge: a randomized controlled study in higher education online
Journal of Computing in Higher Education, vol. 37, pp. 780–808
Abstract
Abstract The study investigates how the 2×2 configuration of homogeneous and heterogeneous distributions of extraversion and prior knowledge influences group outcomes, including satisfaction, performance, and stability. Based on the standard deviation of extraversion and prior knowledge, groups were established to test experimentally, what form of grouping leads to best outcomes. The randomized controlled trial took place in the context of an online course with 355 prospective students, working in 82 groups. The two characteristics extraversion and prior knowledge were distributed algorithmically, either homogeneously or heterogeneously. Results showed no superiority of heterogeneous formation, yet there were systematic interaction effects by the experimental group formation on satisfaction and performance. Due to the increasing relevance of online groupwork, explorative results are reported and integrated. Ideas for future research on group formation as an important influencing factor are discussed. Findings supports knowledge about cooperative online learning by optimizing the selection of group members using a therefore implemented algorithm.
Authors 5
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Adrienne Mueller corresponding
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
Affiliation as printed
Psychology in the Educational Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Binger Str. 14-16, 55122, Mainz, Germany
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Fulda University of Applied Sciences
Affiliation as printed
Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Leipziger Str. 123, 36037, Fulda, Germany
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Affiliation as printed
Computer Science 9 (Learning Technologies), RWTH Aachen University, Ahornstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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Technische Universität Darmstadt
Affiliation as printed
Fachbereich Mathematik, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Schloßgartenstraße 7, 64289, Darmstadt, Germany
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Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
Affiliation as printed
Psychology in the Educational Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Binger Str. 14-16, 55122, Mainz, Germany
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