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Effects and timing of developmental peer appraisals in self-managing work groups
1Department of Organizational Behavior, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-7235, USA. vxd@po.cwru.edu
The Journal of Applied Psychology
|March 25, 1999
Summary
Structured peer appraisals positively impact teamwork, boosting communication and motivation. Their effectiveness depends on timing, not just feedback balance, highlighting potential for work teams.
Area of Science:
- Organizational Psychology
- Team Dynamics
- Management Science
Background:
- Peer appraisal is a crucial feedback mechanism in team settings.
- Understanding the temporal and contextual factors influencing peer appraisal effectiveness is essential for optimizing team performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immediate and long-term effects of structured, face-to-face developmental peer appraisal.
- To examine how the ratio of positive to negative feedback and timing relative to task deadlines influence appraisal outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A repeated measures time-series design was employed.
- The study involved 294 undergraduates in 44 self-managing work groups (SMWGs) and 217 MBA students in 36 SMWGs.
Main Results:
- Immediate positive impacts were observed on open communication, task motivation, social loafing, group viability, cohesion, and satisfaction.
- Appraisal effects were independent of the perceived feedback ratio.
- Enduring impact was significantly influenced by the timing of the appraisal relative to the task deadline.
Conclusions:
- Peer appraisals can foster positive relationships and enhance task focus within work teams.
- The temporal context, specifically appraisal timing, is a critical factor influencing its enduring effects.
- Developmental peer appraisal holds significant potential for improving the performance of work teams.