Brainstorming on a "hot" problem: Effects of training and practice on individual and group performance

Abstract

Assigned 96 undergraduates to 8 treatments in a 2 * 2 * 2 analysis of variance in which the factors were videotape training, practice, and individual vs. group brainstorming. Ss were asked to generate ways that individuals might influence United States foreign policy. Significant interactions were found between videotape training and practice and between videotape training and individual vs. group brainstorming. Expected facilitation of performance through videotape training did not materialize. Group practice followed by individual brainstorming produced the largest number of ideas. The general superiority of individuals over groups appears even more pronounced when the problem is real and motivation is high. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)