Process Features in the Initial Phases of Virtual Collaboration that Predict Ultimate Collaborative Problem-Solving Outcomes

Collaborative problem-solving (CPS) is crucial for virtual team performance, yet the specific behavioral factors influencing team success, especially in the early stages, are underexplored.This study examines which behavioral characteristics in the early phases predict team performance through two representative tasks, the Mondrian Geometric Fantasy task and the Three-Resistor Activity.The research reveals that the skill of real-time monitoring and evaluation is the most important predictor of team performance in the early stages of CPS, followed by exploring collaborative goals.The former provides continuous evaluation through timely feedback and correction, while the latter sets a directional framework for interaction, reducing cognitive load, thereby improving performance.This study offers insights into the behaviors of student teams in the early stages of CPS and their relationship with team performance, especially in virtual settings.These behavioral characteristics can be utilized to identify key assessment and intervention points for developing CPS skills.