Comparative Cognition Needs Big Team Science : How Large-Scale Collaborations Will Unlock the Future of the Field

Alessandroni, N. and Altschul, D. and Bazhydai, M. and Byers-Heinlein, K. and Elsherif, M. and Gjoneska, B. and Huber, L. and Mazza, V. and Miller, R. and Nawroth, C. and Pronizius, E. and Qadri, M.A.J. and Slipogor, V. and Söderström, M. and Stevens, J.R. and Visser, I. and Williams, M. and Zettersten, M. and Prétôt, L. (2024) Comparative Cognition Needs Big Team Science : How Large-Scale Collaborations Will Unlock the Future of the Field. Comparative Cognition and Behavior Reviews, 19. pp. 67-72.

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Abstract

Comparative cognition research has been largely constrained to isolated facilities, small teams, and a limited number of species. This has led to challenges such as conflicting conceptual definitions and underpowered designs. Here, we explore how Big Team Science (BTS) may remedy these issues. Specifically, we identify and describe four key BTS advantages — increasing sample size and diversity, enhancing task design, advancing theories, and improving welfare and conservation efforts. We conclude that BTS represents a transformative shift capable of advancing research in the field.