Facilitating Research with Group Support Systems
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-1996
DOI
http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1046496496272001
Abstract
Group Support Systems (GSS) and their effects on group processes and outcomes have been an object of intense study for 10 years. This article takes a different perspective on the involvement of GSS in research. The authors address how GSS tools can facilitate the process of developing and implementing research. A generic model of the research process is used to describe specific suggestions and examples-including three scenarios-for improving researcher efficiency and effectiveness. GSS can provide a variety of benefits to researchers, including basic meeting support for multiple researchers in developing elements of a research project; electronic recording of data from subjects; data analysis; and integration of information and data across the entire research process. Benefits of using GSS to facilitate/support the research process, the limitations of this approach, and the use of GSS to extend the research process beyond its current boundaries are reviewed.
Publication Information
Anson, Robert; Fellers, Jack; Kelly, Gigi G.; and Bostrom, Robert P.. (1996). "Facilitating Research with Group Support Systems". Small Group Research, 27(2), 179-214.