Strategic demonstration of problem solutions by groups: The effects of member preferences, confidence, and learning goals

• We investigated group problem-solving process, performance, and member learning.
• Correct minorities are more likely to demonstrate solutions than correct majorities.
• Problem demonstrations depend on member confidence and a group’s interaction goal.
• Correct demonstrations predict group performance and member learning.

Research indicates that groups perform best, and their members learn the most, when they solve problems with demonstrably correct solutions. These outcomes are often attributed to correct members demonstrating to incorrect members how to solve such problems. However, because few studies have directly observed group interaction (Moreland, Swanenburg, Flagg, & Fetterman, 2010), the extent to which correct members actually demonstrate problem solutions remains unclear. Assuming that groups are strategic and desire to solve problems both accurately and efficiently, we predicted that initially correct minorities would be more likely than initially correct majorities to demonstrate problem solutions. Results from two studies support this prediction, in the form of member behavioral intentions (Study 1) and observed group interaction processes (Study 2). Study 1 also highlights the role of confidence in this effect, while Study 2 reveals that demonstration is overall more likely when groups have a goal that encourages member learning.