What is it about?
This study explores the evolution of academic research on virtual teams within university settings, driven by the increased internationalization of universities and the digitalization of teaching due to COVID-19. It aims to identify prominent research trajectories and outline a future research agenda. By conducting a systematic review of literature from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, the study examines what, when, who, where, and how virtual teams in universities have been researched. Using the PRISMA method, 47 relevant articles were identified. The study finds that most research has focused on virtual student teams, with fewer studies on virtual research teams, despite their importance in internationalizing research networks. It also highlights the need to extend research to different cultural contexts, as most studies have been conducted in the United States. The review organizes the content and future research directions around a life cycle model, considering inputs, operating processes, and outputs/results, with the operating process being the most developed category to date.
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Why is it important?
This research is important for several reasons. First, it addresses the growing trend of internationalization and digitalization in higher education, which has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding how virtual teams operate in universities can help improve the effectiveness of both student and researcher collaborations in a globalized and digital context. Second, the study highlights the need for more research on virtual research teams, which are crucial for fostering international research networks and collaborations. By identifying gaps in the current literature, the study provides a roadmap for future research that can enhance the performance and efficiency of these teams. Third, the research emphasizes the importance of cultural aspects in the performance of virtual teams. Extending studies to different cultural contexts can provide a more comprehensive understanding of how virtual teams function across diverse environments, leading to better strategies for managing and supporting these teams. Overall, this research can guide universities, policymakers, and researchers in developing effective virtual team practices, ultimately contributing to the advancement of education and research in a digital and interconnected world.
Perspectives
From my perspective, this study offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of virtual teams in higher education. It underscores the importance of adapting to the digital transformation accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped how universities operate and collaborate globally. One key perspective is the need to balance research between virtual student teams and virtual research teams. While student teams are crucial for educational purposes, virtual research teams play a significant role in advancing knowledge and fostering international collaborations. Addressing this imbalance can lead to more comprehensive strategies that benefit both education and research. Another important aspect is the cultural dimension of virtual teams. Understanding how cultural differences impact team dynamics and performance can help universities create more inclusive and effective virtual environments. This is particularly relevant as higher education becomes increasingly globalized. Lastly, the study's use of a life cycle model to organize research findings and future directions is a practical approach. It provides a structured framework for examining the various stages of virtual team development, from inputs to processes to outcomes. This can guide future research and help universities implement best practices at each stage. Overall, this research is a stepping stone towards optimizing virtual team operations in universities, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a digital and interconnected world.
Dr F. Javier Miranda
Universidad de Extremadura
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Virtual Teams in the University: A Critical Literature Review and A Research Agenda, Marketing and Management of Innovations, January 2024, Sumy State University,
DOI: 10.21272/mmi.2024.1-15.
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