Ad-hoc online teams as complex systems: agents that cater for team interaction rules

Abstract

This paper justifies the treatment of ad-hoc online teams as complex systems. Scenarios exist where collaborative asynchronous processes are necessary to solve a particular problem. These processes are both task related and team related. They have been one focus of Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL), Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW), and socio-psychological investigations into team behaviours and outcomes. Difficulties with the predictability of teams arise because they are complex systems. Software support for enabling teams to establish rules can allow for emergence and also capture expertise (patterns) in a given context. This software can act as an educational tool through the active participation of team members and the application of their rules.