A comparison of individual and group performance for varying combinations of initial ability.

This study compares the performance of individuals with that of 2-member groups, the Ss in the groups having varying combinations of ability. The results showed that: (a) Ss improve significantly when working in pair-groups over working as individuals; (b) the group effect is greatest for low-level Ss; (c) Ss working with partners at their same level do not improve over working with partners below their level; (d) Ss working with partners above their level do improve significantly over working with partners at or below their level, but, within the limits considered, the extent that the partner is above does not matter. In comparing the performance of an individual with that of a group, the level of ability of the Ss involved should be described. An area of research which has had a long history is the comparison of individual performance with group performance. Studies in this area have been reviewed by Kelley and Thibaut (1954), Lorge, Fox, Davitz, and Brenner (1958), and most recently by Hare (1962). In general, most studies find that the group performance is superior to that of individuals. These studies have examined the relationship between group and individual