Teams as technology: applying theory and research to model macrocognition processes in teams

Abstract

Macrocognition in teams involves the cognitive and collaborative processes by which teams integrate their members’ knowledge into useful solutions. Macrocognition demonstrates one way teams are a technology to enhance performance and outperform individuals. We use combinations-of-contributions theory and the ideal group model of signal detection theory to further understand macrocognition and model the potential impact of macrocognition. Although not consistently beneficial, transactive knowledge systems, stimulated cognition and information sharing are presented as representations of macrocognition. A thought experiment based on macrocognitive processes and the ideal group model illustrates the consequences of structures for distributing critical evidence among team members. Results show the value of redundancy in evidence distribution as well as indicate that macrocognition in teams can include processes that result in performance decrements. Macrocognition demonstrates how collaborative cognitive processes associated with team members’ interaction and activities contribute to team performance on cognitive tasks.

Keywords:

• macrocognition
• team performance
• cognitive processes
• transactive knowledge
• stimulated cognition
• information sharing in teams

Acknowledgement

This study was supported by grants from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and the National Science Foundation awarded to V.B. Hinsz.