Marshmallow Challenge Insights and Lessons

The Marshmallow Challenge is a team-building exercise where teams use spaghetti, tape, string, and a marshmallow to build the tallest structure in 18 minutes. Promoted by Tom Wujec, it has been conducted globally with various groups, revealing surprising results. Architects and engineers typically perform best, while business graduates often perform poorly. Kindergartners excel due to their immediate action, adaptability, and natural collaboration. The challenge highlights the importance of hands-on experimentation and effective teamwork over age and experience.

What materials are used in the Marshmallow Challenge?

• 20 sticks of dry spaghetti, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and one balloon

• 20 sticks of dry spaghetti, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and one marshmallow

• 20 sticks of dry spaghetti, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and one apple

• 20 sticks of dry spaghetti, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and one chocolate

What is the main objective of the Marshmallow Challenge?

• To build the tallest freestanding structure

• To build the widest structure

• To build the most stable structure

• To build the most colorful structure

Which group performed the best in the Marshmallow Challenge?

• Lawyers

• CEOs

• Business Graduates

• Architects and Engineers

What is the average height of structures built in the Marshmallow Challenge?

• 20 inches

• 15 inches

• 25 inches

• 30 inches

Which group surprisingly outperformed most adult teams?

• High school students

• College students

• Kindergartners

• Retirees

What is one reason kindergartners performed well in the challenge?

• They quickly adapted to failed approaches

• They spent a lot of time planning

• They used advanced engineering techniques

• They had more materials to work with

How do kindergartners approach the challenge differently from adults?

• They focus on planning before building

• They start building immediately

• They use complex designs

• They work individually

What is a common mistake adults make in the Marshmallow Challenge?

• They don't collaborate

• They spend too much time planning

• They start building immediately

• They use too many materials

What lesson does the Marshmallow Challenge teach about problem-solving?

• Planning is more important than execution

• Age and experience are the keys to success

• Experimentation and collaboration are crucial

• Using the best materials guarantees success

Why is collaboration important in the Marshmallow Challenge?

• It ensures the structure is colorful

• It helps in deciding who is in charge

• It reduces the number of materials used

• It allows for more ideas and faster adjustments