Collaborative Intelligence & Influence As A Socio-Cognitive Capability: A Philosophical Structuring Of Developmental Outcomes

Abstract

This conceptual paper introduces Collaborative Intelligence & Influence (CI²) as a structured, socio-cognitive competence situated within the Cognitive Psychology Dimension of the VFC Competence Framework. CI² is defined as the ability to co-create meaning, co-regulate reasoning, and ethically influence group dynamics in human and hybrid collaboration systems. Drawing on interdisciplinary literature—including cognitive psychology, organizational behavior, team science, and human–AI collaboration—the paper proposes a multi-layered model comprising four interdependent components: collaborative cognition, collaborative influence, trust calibration, and adaptive perspective-taking. These components are operationalized through the VFC-aligned KSAH model (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, Habits), with progressive developmental levels mapped from novice to expert.

The methodology applies a qualitative synthesis of peer-reviewed literature and case-based application to structure CI² as both a developmental and diagnostic construct. The findings reinforce the need for culturally responsive, ethically grounded, and cognitively integrated approaches to collaboration—particularly in hybrid, AI-mediated, and youth development contexts. The paper concludes with a proposed research agenda to empirically validate CI² across diverse sociocultural settings and integrate it into future-oriented learning systems.