The influence of shared-representation on shared mental models in virtual teams

Abstract

This paper reports a laboratory experiment investigating the influence and effects of shared-representation facilities on collaboration and shared mental models development in virtual teams. The experiment has two experimental conditions; with or without shared-representation facilities. Participants were asked to work in pairs on a 'house hunting' scenario. The results showed no significant difference in the overall performance between the two conditions, however shared mental models development was significantly higher where partners were able to use shared-representation facilities. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.