Is Our Education System Leaving Gaps in Collaboration Skills?

Reflecting on my educational journey, particularly during my MBA at the ripe old age of 34, I remember feeling shocked when a professor told us that the first module was about thinking critically and researching effectively. As experienced leaders, my cohort thought we were already experts in those areas. But by the end of the course, we all agreed—it was a seminal moment that transformed our approach to problem-solving.

This got me thinking: What if organisations face a similar challenge regarding collaboration? Our education system often emphasises individual achievement—grades, personal accolades, and standardised tests. As a result, we enter the workforce as strong individuals but sometimes lack the collaborative skills needed for complex, team-based environments. Organisations inherit these individualistic mindsets and may need "remedial" work to teach practical, non-competitive collaboration.

But here’s where it gets interesting: Just as education systems integrate more critical thinking, organisations can proactively develop collaboration skills. And AI could be a game-changer in this space.

Imagine AI-driven roleplays that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing teams to practice collaboration in a controlled environment. Or AI-facilitated Socratic dialogues that challenge our assumptions about teamwork and help us explore diverse perspectives. AI can also serve as a real-time assistant, mediating discussions, enhancing team dynamics, and providing data-driven insights into how effectively teams work together.

Collaboration is more than just working together—it's about aligning individual goals with collective success, fostering empathy, and encouraging open communication. While our education system might not fully prepare us for this, organizations have the opportunity to bridge the gap. And with AI as a partner, we can reimagine how we teach and practice collaboration, making it a core strength rather than a secondary skill.

For a glimpse of what's possible, look at my experiment The Leadership Skills Lab.