This course develops the mindsets and methods leaders need to turn groups into intelligent, adaptive teams. Participants learn how to cultivate trust, shared purpose, and feedback systems that drive innovation, accountability, and continuous learning.
Module 1 – The Foundation of Collaborative Intelligence
Purpose: Introduce the concept of collaborative intelligence and why collective insight outperforms individual expertise. Key Topics: Defining collaborative intelligence and collective efficacy The neuroscience of collaboration and trust Team roles, diversity of thought, and cognitive inclusion Applied Learning: Team diagnostic: assess current collaboration strengths and barriers in your
Module 2 — Building Psychological Safety and Trust
Purpose: Create conditions that enable openness, experimentation, and constructive dissent. Key Topics: Psychological safety and engagement research (Edmondson framework) How trust is built, maintained, and repaired Leader behaviors that encourage contribution and candor Applied Learning: Facilitate a “Trust Mapping” activity to identify team confidence zones and silence
Module 3 — Communication Systems and Feedback Architecture
Purpose: Design communication structures that sustain alignment and learning. Key Topics: Moving from meetings to systems: feedback loops and cadence Framing feedback as shared learning Digital and hybrid communication tools for visibility and flow Applied Learning: Create a Team Communication Canvas: meeting rhythms, feedback loops, and decision rights.
Module 4 — Collaborative Problem-Solving and Creative Thinking
Purpose: Strengthen the team’s capacity to think together, challenge assumptions, and co-create solutions. Key Topics: Design-thinking methods for team innovation Structured dialogue and divergent/convergent thinking Facilitation tools that unlock creative tension Applied Learning: Lead a short “Team Design Sprint” on a current operational or strategic challenge.
Module 6 — Pulling It All Together: Leading Learning Teams
Purpose: Integrate all principles into a cohesive approach to leading collaborative, high-performing teams. Key Topics: Revisiting team diagnostics and growth goals Synthesizing safety, communication, and accountability Building an ongoing learning plan for the team Applied Learning: Draft a Collaborative Intelligence Action Plan to implement within 60 days. Optional peer reflection: