Data Gathering In science observation through data gathering

Data Gathering “In science, observation (through data gathering) is a search for what is hidden, not just because it is hidden, but because its exposure will facilitate an intimate, sustained, and productive relationship with the world. ” – A. Kaplan

1. The Big Questions n How do you define effectiveness? n n n What are the group goals? (stated & unstated) What are the individual goals? (stated & unstated) What factors contributed to effectiveness? n n n Networks Communication climate & skills Decision-making style Structural issues (make-up of the group, size etc. ) Leadership style Other (environment, trust, etc. )

2. Overview of methods n Categorize Behaviors n n Verbal Nonverbal Tests & Scales (e. g. Semantic differential) n Observe & Interview n Socio-metric (choice making) n n “With whom would you like to sit? ”

3. Decision-points Purpose n Degree of inference n Units of behavior n Sampling (events or over time) n When to record n Recording methods n

4. Special Problems n n n The observer n Inference-observation confusion n “Demand” characteristics “The instrument” n Behavior-construct gap n Terministic screen Reliability Validity Basic Rule - The more the burden of interpretation is placed on on the observer, the greater the validity problem.

5. Sample technique Rating scales n Evaluation of individual participants n Post-meeting reaction sheets n Interaction diagrams n Bales IPA n Clampitt (Content Style Analysis) n

6. Putting the data into perspective n Triangulation n Agree Disagree Neutral Distinguishing between individual and group effectiveness n Linking communication and group effectiveness n