Improving Information Sharing in Groups by Using Dyads

Abstract

Present research focused on studying impact of preparation work (prework) in dyads on information sharing in groups. Stasser and Titus (1985) found that groups focus on common information during discussion and neglect unique information. Further, research has shown that subjects are more willing to share information in dyadic settings compared to larger groups (Taylor, de Soto and Lieb, 1979). This research looks at the advantage that can be derived from using dyads to do prework before group engages the assigned task. A cross-sectional between-subjects experimental design was used. Data was collected from 40 groups with help of 240 participants. It was found that prework in dyads enhanced unique information sharing at group level discussion.