Collaborative Intelligence refers to the ability of humans and systems (including peers, educators, and technologies such as AI or digital tools) to work together effectively by combining their strengths to achieve better outcomes than individuals working alone. Rather than replacing human judgment, CI emphasizes shared problem-solving, co-decision making, and continuous feedback among collaborators.

In education, collaborative intelligence supports inclusive practices by enabling students, teachers, and tools to adapt learning tasks, share responsibility, and scaffold understanding based on individual needs.

In an inclusive classroom, a teacher uses collaborative intelligence by combining peer collaboration and assistive technology. For example, students work in small groups to solve a problem while using shared digital tools (e.g., visual planners or collaborative documents). The teacher monitors progress, provides guidance when needed, and adjusts instruction based on group feedback. This collaboration allows students with executive functioning challenges to participate meaningfully while benefiting from peer support and structured tools.

Collaborative intelligence enhances learning by leveraging collective strengths, promoting inclusion, and supporting diverse learners through shared responsibility and adaptive support.

References

Malone, T. W., Laubacher, R., & Dellarocas, C. (2010). The collective intelligence genome. MIT Sloan Management Review, 51(3), 21–31.

Luckin, R., Holmes, W., Griffiths, M., & Forcier, L. B. (2016). Intelligence Unleashed: An argument for AI in Education. Pearson Education.

OECD. (2021). Fostering students’ collaborative problem-solving skills. OECD Publishing.