The impact of Group Intelligence software on enquiry-based learning

Authors:
Yin Leng Tan;Linda A. Macaulay
Affiliations:
Department of Business Information Technology and Enterprise, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK.;Manchester Business School, University of Manchester, Booth Street East, Manchester M15 6PM, UK
Venue:
International Journal of Learning Technology
Year:
2011

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Abstract

Despite the increasing use of groupware technologies in education, there is little evidence of their impact, especially within an enquiry-based learning (EBL) context. In this paper, we examine the use of a commercial standard Group Intelligence software called GroupSystems®ThinkTank. To date, ThinkTank has been adopted mainly in the USA and supports teams in generating ideas, categorising, prioritising, voting and multi-criteria decision-making and automatically generates a report at the end of each session. The software was used by students carrying out an EBL project, set by employers, for a full academic year. The criteria for assessing the impact of ThinkTank on student learning were those of creativity, participation, productivity, engagement and understanding. Data was collected throughout the year using a combination of interviews and questionnaires, and written feedback from employers. The overall findings show an increase in levels of productivity and creativity, evidence of a deeper understanding of their work but some variation in attitudes towards participation in the early stages of the project.