A group dynamics framework for 21st century collective intelligence facilitators

Abstract

First paragraph: Systems thinking and collective action capabilities are increasingly needed to address societal challenges (Hogan, Harney, & Broome, 2015; Mulgan, 2018). There are many systems-thinking methods collective intelligence (CI) facilitators can use when working with groups that seek to address societal challenges (Jackson, 2019). However, educational training programmes supporting the development of CI group facilitation skills are not widely available (Hogan, Hall, & Harney, 2017), although awareness of the need exists (Penuel, 2019). Importantly, in addition to method-specific expertise, skill in the use of CI methods requires an understanding of group dynamics. While groups or teams may not be skilled in managing their own group dynamics, CI facilitators need to understand, monitor and manage group dynamics during the application of CI methods (Hogan & Broome, 2020 In Press). Therefore, training programmes designed to cultivate CI facilitation skills need a strong pedagogical focus on group dynamics. This paper presents a group dynamics framework for CI facilitators, outlining the relevant pedagogical domain territory for educational programme designers.