You’ll play this game in three separate rounds. In round 1, you’re on your own. In round 2, you’ll work in a small group and share information. You’ll also work in a small group in round 3, but this time, you’ll have the additional benefit of some suggestions for improving the group’s performance. Typically, students find that performance improves over the course of the three rounds. In particular, they find that creativity is enhanced when information is shared. 

Exercise Task 

1. Play the “Name Game” that your professor will explain to you. In round 1, work out your answers individually and then report your individual score to the class. 

2. For round 2, you’ll join a group of three to five students. Work out your answers together and write your group answers on a single sheet of paper. Now allow each group member to look at the answer sheet. If you can do so without being overheard by other groups, have each group member whisper the answers on the sheet to the group. Report your group score to the class. 

3. Your professor will then ask the highest-performing individuals and groups to share their methods with the class. At this point, your professor will make some suggestions. Be sure to consider at least two strategies for improving your score. 

4. Now play round 3, working together in the same small groups in which you participated in round 2. Report your group scores to the class. 

5. Did average group scores improve upon average individual scores? Why or why not? 

6. Did average group scores improve after methods for improvement were discussed at the end of round 2? Why or why not? 

7. What has this game taught you about teamwork and effectiveness? Share your thoughts with the class.