Gender and group composition in small task groups using computer-mediated communication

Abstract

Group composition of small task groups was varied in terms of the gender of group members. Groups then completed a task using only asynchronous computer-mediated communication (CMC). It was presumed that groups composed of all men or all women would represent extreme positions in several gender-related variables, whereas mixed groups would fall between the extremes. Male-only groups used significantly fewer individually oriented pronouns, changed their opinions least as a result of group activity, used more coarse language toward the task, and were the least satisfied with the group process. Female-only groups were most satisfied with the group process, used the most individually oriented language, and changed their opinions most as a result of the group activity. Mixed groups sent significantly more messages than other groups, but otherwise fell between single-gender groups in terms of language use and satisfaction. The results are interpreted with reference to group and CMC factors, such as the nature of the task, stage of group development, message anonymity, and leadership. These findings are important because of the increasing use of task groups using CMC in the workforce.