This study investigates the correlation between nonverbal synchrony (NVS) during group discussions and intellectual productivity. Using the SenseChair device to measure participants' seated swaying, the researchers analyzed the relationship between synchrony (both global and pairwise) and the number of ideas, idea categories, and originality. Results showed a marginally significant positive correlation between the mean pairwise synchrony and the number of ideas generated, suggesting that increased synchronization between pairs of participants enhances idea generation. Analyzing local pairwise synchrony rather than global synchrony provided more insightful correlations with group intellectual productivity.

Motoki Manabe, Ken Fujiwara, Kodai Ito, Yuichi Itoh