Computer supported collaborative writing (CSCW), due to the potential to enhance online collaborative writing performance, has received more and more attention in educational settings in recent years. However, the lack of social presence results in learners not being able to construct group awareness to reduce participation rate and even appear…

Focuses on whether a collective mind forms in large-group writing in the workplace. Discusses "collective form" in two senses. Describes how group leaders prominently displayed a task completion check-off chart that, in a downsizing environment, helped both to coordinate group activity and to encourage completion. Discusses pedagogical…

Presents instructional strategies designed to maximize cohesion and minimize conflict in collaborative writing groups. Argues that an understanding of sources of conflict, conflict management strategies, and group processes allows productive and creative group energy to be channeled into effective business writing. (RS)

Describes a collaborative classroom process that helps build cohesion among group members by placing all students into the roles of writer, reader, editor, and evaluator. Presents six teaching tips for the process. (RS)

Examines the cultural assumptions about what makes an effective team member. Argues that educators typically design collaborative projects and evaluate student participants by using a Western mode of how people should behave in groups. Suggests pedagogical strategies to prepare students for collaborating with students from many cultures. (RS)