Co-Writing in the Workplace: Collaborating across Language Differences

• Main Author: Poznahovska, Maria
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: co-writing; Collaboration; Face; linguistic proficiency difference; Task analysis; Teamwork; Writing
• ISSN: 2158-1002
• DOI: 10.1109/ProComm.2018.00027

Differences in language proficiency frequently cause resentment, miscommunication and poor collaboration during co-writing situations. Because both native and nonnative speaking students struggle with delegating tasks amid language differences, common responses tend to include rewriting or omitting poorly written text as well as withdrawing from the group altogether. When we further examine these problems, we find that these unproductive responses tend to emerge from a lack strategies for negotiating language differences. In order to better inform classroom practices, this research turns to professionals to explore the types of strategies they use in similar situations. Based on data collected from critical incidents and scenario-based interviewing approaches, preliminary results show professionals using strategies such as explicitly addressing and discussing language differences when they arise, delegating tasks according to expertise and language proficiency, advocating for one's goals in the writing process, and creating team charters.