The use of cognitive mapping in eliciting and evaluating group cognitions

Abstract

A holistic method for eliciting and evaluating group cognition was introduced and tested. In the study, 359 undergraduate students were assigned to 72 groups, consisting of 4 to 6 members who worked on research projects lasting for 14 weeks. In order to evaluate the way groups represent the specific knowledge related to their tasks, we used a conceptual mapping technique. Conceptual mapping proved to be a fruitful way to understand the way groups represent their knowledge. The conceptual maps were stable in time and had explanatory power for groups' performance.