The impact of cross-training on team effectiveness

J Appl Psychol. 2002 Feb;87(1):3-13. doi: 10.1037/0021-9010.87.1.3.

Abstract

The authors examined the role of cross-training in developing shared team-interaction mental models, coordination, and performance in a 2-experiment study using computer simulation methodology (for Experiment 1, N = 45 teams; for Experiment 2, N = 49 teams). Similar findings emerged across the 2 experiments. First, cross-training enhanced the development of shared team-interaction models. Second, coordination mediated the relationship between shared mental models and team performance. However, there was some inconsistency in the findings concerning the depth of cross-training necessary for improving shared mental models. Results are discussed in terms of the impact of different levels of cross-training on team effectiveness.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Computer Simulation
  • Decision Making
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Institutional Management Teams*
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Models, Organizational*
  • Task Performance and Analysis