NCJ Number
86274
Date Published
1980
Length
168 pages
Annotation
The research examined the effects of three types of team training (task skills, group dynamics, and team skills) in various combinations upon the performance and cohesiveness of the team.
Abstract
Volunteer students at Michigan State University were separated by sex and within sex were randomly assigned to one of four training treatments: task skill only; task skill and group dynamics; task skill and load sharing skills; or task skill, group dynamics, and load sharing skill. Subjects within each of the treatments were also randomly assigned to either a pretest or a nonpretest group. The random assignment resulted in 48 4-person teams with a fifth alternate member designated for each team. Each team viewed a series of 10-minute training tapes and received controlled practice. Teams were then required to engage in two similar simulations in consecutive order. Each of the simulations involved complaint calls coming into a mock police radio room. Teams were required to categorize the calls according to a set criteria and assign patrol cars to deal with the calls. Team members completed a questionnaire at the end of the simulations. Hypothesis-testing procedures were conducted using analysis of variance in a 4x2x2 design. Independent variables included type of training, sex, and pretesting. Results showed that the type of training did have a significant effect upon team performance. Teams that received load received load sharing training performed significantly better. These results suggest that the training of work teams in team skills such as load sharing will improve the performance of the team and enhance their ability to perform a team mission. Tables, figures, footnotes, about 175 references, and appended study data and instruments are provided. (Author abstract modified)