In a message dated 97-12-17 18:31:51 EST, you write:
> Computerized brainstorming, in my experience,
> greatly reduces group think, because the tension is less, participants
> react to the message and not to the messenger (the likely "cause" of the
> tension, is that people might suspect they'll loose face when the message
> is not understood, or not quite right, or incomplete, or whatever ..).
I agree with Jan, having used a similar computer-assisted meeting
technology called VisionQuest. Beyond reducing groupthink, the
productivity (generation of ideas) is greatly enhanced due to the
simultaneous input that occurs during the process. Still, a facilitator
needs to be alert to the possibility that a dilluted form of groupthink
can creep into the process; and the tool is appropriately used to enhance
and focus discussion, not replace it, and to complement other tools like
flipcharts, post-its and colored markers. Having helped several groups
utilize this kind of 'groupware' technology I personally become very
frustrated when I find myself, as a participant, back in the 'traditional'
environment with a facilitator-scribing-on-flipchart-in-serial- fashion.
I wish everyone could sometime experience what it feels like to really
think as a group WITHOUT groupthink.
Dave Kennebeck
DavidK4162@aol.com
--DavidK4162 <DavidK4162@aol.com>
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