THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE MODERATION OF PR OJECT GROUPS

Three methods of moderating teams with leaders are evaluated empirical ly within a behavioral business simulation: free discussion, documenti ng groups' arguments with Metaplan, and structuring the problem as a n etwork with computer aid. The groups' effectiveness is assessed by par ticipant and expert rating as well as content analysis of the verbal p rotocols. Compared to the free discussions, Metaplan and computer-supp orted groups showed less differentiation in problem structuring and se arch for solutions. The highest number of proposals for solving the pr oblem was reached by Metaplan groups. The amount of process control as well as the discussion leader participation in the Metaplan and compu ter supported groups was higher than in the free discussions.