Lone Wolves versus the Rest: Affect, Conflict, Connectedness, Trust, Teamwork Quality and Student Group Performance
Authors
Prentice, Garry
Issue Date
2017
Degree
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
Background: Many employers identify willingness to work and learn in teams as a key graduate attribute. This study examined connectedness, team work quality, student satisfaction and affect effects on group work performance, while considering students who think group work might lower their group work performance (the lone wolves). Method: This study incorporated quasi-experimental, repeated measures, and correlational designs. The questionnaires were given out in the first week of term, and at the end of the group work assessment. The student sample (N=74) chose their own groups. Results: Students had mixed feelings about past group work. A regression analysis revealed that lone wolves were more likely to perform better within the group. Conclusions: The positive responses in relation to connectedness, trust, and work quality suggest the group work, which was split into unambiguous tasks, was successful.