Facing the Online Collaboration Challenges

CHALLENGES IN COLLABORATIVE

ACTIVITIES

Social Learning PerspectiveA collection of observable behaviors (Galef,

2009).Organized into four perspectives.

Relates to the situational environment people experience (Mearns, 2009).Will relate to changes observed in individuals in

group situations.Explains how learners acquire information

through observation of behavior (Mae Sincero, 2011). Three models to define parameters.

Time ManagementThe role of time constraints

The convenience of the distance environment can aid in behaviors supporting procrastination.

Must be used wiselyTime is a resource that is not renewable.Poor time management can be costly.

Set reasonable goals.Timelines can be valuable.Breaks larger task into more manageable.

Differing OpinionsJob completion

Can the work get done with differing opinions?Work interference

Will differences in opinion result in a sub-par product?

Maintaining professionalismRegardless of the differences, professionalism

must be consistent throughout.Justifying the process

In order for the process to work, compromises may be necessary.

Lack of ParticipationMembers with drive

Must motivate the members that are lacking.Members without drive

Will be present in most collaborative groups.Teamwork

The team must be developed and fostered in order for the group to be successful.

The end resultWhen all group members participate

appropriately, the process will be fulfilled.

SummaryThe finished product

The completion of the product is just as important as its collective parts.

TimeMust be dedicated to completion.

OpinionsEven the experts disagree.

ParticipationAll members of the team must contribute

their fair share.

ReferencesGalef, B. (2009). Chapter 4, Strategies for social

learning: Testing predictions from formal theory. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S006534540939004X.

Mae Sincero, S. (2011). Experiment resources: What is social learning theory? Retrieved from http://www.experiment-resources.com/social-learning-theory.html

Mearns, J. (2009). Social learning theory. In H. Reis & S. Sprecher (Eds.), Encyclopedia of human relationships (vol. 3) (pp. 1537-1540). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.