Rumor as group problem solving - Development patterns in informal computer-mediated groups

There is a dearth of research focusing on developmental changes in computer -mediated communication groups. In this study, developmental patterns in 14 informal groups on computer-mediated networks were analyzed using the Grou p Development Observation System. Results indicated marked similarity betwe en the patterns found with the CMC groups in this study and those reported in the literature on face-fo-face groups. The findings were in agreement wi th recent longitudinal research that has noted similarities in the two type s of group communication overtime.