Group Intelligence: An Active Learning Exploration of Diversity in Evolution

Abstract

Group Intelligence is an active learning, inquiry-based activity that introduces prebiotic chemistry, emergent complexity, and diversity's importance to adaptability across scales. Students explore the molecular emergence of order and function through theatrical exercises and games. Through 20 min of audio instruction and a discussion of roughly the same length, Group Intelligence teaches students about emergent function kinesthetically by guiding them through a series of increasingly complex and cooperative exercises analogous to molecular behaviors and interactions. The program was assessed in six classrooms at two schools; students completed surveys either before or after participating in the Group Intelligence activity. Those who completed the survey afterward correctly answered questions about diversity in living systems, molecular characteristics, and molecular assembly 13-26% more frequently than those who completed the survey before the activity. Through novel presentation and active engagement, Group Intelligence communicates content in NGS standards, making abstract ideas in modern science accessible.