Improved Access to Intelligent Responses Using the Baha'i Method of Consultation: Two Exploratory Small-Sample Studies

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to measure the improvement in accessing intelligent responses through the use of consultation. In the first study, eight subjects were given three sets of tasks to be completed as individuals. The hypotheses concerned use of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). Three sets of scores were recorded: individual--scores earned by each one working independently; composite--the combined best answers from the individual work; and group scores--those earned by the decision reached through consultation. Comparisons were made between the composite and the group scores. The group did not perform any better in recall of knowledge of a general nature beyond the composite or combined results of its individual members. Improvement was seen in the areas of identifying relationships and practical judgment. The greatest gain was found in the WAIS subtest of comprehension. The group score of these subjects was two standard deviations above the composite score, which represented a change from the 71.5^th percentile to the 99.4^th percentile based on the normative population. A second study was conducted to measure the difference between a group that consulted on a task, as compared to individuals with similar background, training, and motivation who performed the same task as individuals. There was a clear advantage shown by consultation as compared to individual results. These results indicate that people consulting together can access intelligent responses superior to that atteined through individual effort. The studies suggest several areas of inquiry for further investigation.