Towards a Framework for Systematically Analysing Collaborative Error

One of the main difficulties in creating a model-based, predictive error analysis method for collaborative work is establishing a useful perspective with which to describe collaborative work and failure systematically. This paper addresses the need for a systematic approach to analysing possible failures of collaborative work in order to create such a method. An iterative approach to the design of the error analysis method has been taken. This paper first discusses the original approach taken to question development for an error analysis of collaborative work, and then focuses on the creation of an improved approach to question development using the results of an evaluation of the original approach as a guide. The new approach involves enhancing the model of collaboration used, breaking collaboration into three aspects (coordination, cooperation and co-construction) and creating a framework to structure a systematic examination of collaboration in terms of cognitive stage relationships.