The Relationship Between Team Dynamics and Innovation Effectiveness in an Engineering Thermal Science Course: An Entrepreneurial Mindset Simulation

Abstract

Teamwork is essential in engineering. Yet research exploring the relationship between Team Dynamics and Innovation Outcomes is scant. This exploratory, mixed-methods study investigates the relationship between Team Dynamics and Innovation Effectiveness. Fourteen student teams were assigned to design a biomass pellet burner. At the end of the term, a “board of investors” that comprised actual entrepreneurs rated the Innovation Effectiveness of each team. Team Dynamics were assessed through a survey and interviews. The relationship between Team Dynamics and Innovation Effectiveness was not linear. Some teams achieved high Innovation Effectiveness despite poor Team Dynamics. Key factors and implications are explored.