Discussion of the use of databases as a teaching/learning tool focuses on their use in a classroom setting with one computer. Topics discussed include instructional strategies, small group and large group activities, and the teachers' role. Exercises and games are suggested and examples of worksheets are provided. (7 references) (LRW)

Nine learning activities can prepare elementary school social studies students for group work. The activities teach students how to organize a group, recognize the value of all contributions, and how to take responsibility to contribute, respond to other contributions, listen carefully, encourage contributions, and form a group decision. (KC)

Presents a model of three types of learning groups, i.e., leader-centered, content-centered, and group-member-centered. Describes the characteristics and uses of each type. (RC)

Suggestions to help teachers organize small groups within the elementary classroom setting are provided, and group task roles and group maintenance roles are examined. Four small-group activities dealing with the American cowboy are described; for example, groups are asked to write a poem about the American cowboy. (RM)

The study of acid rain provides ample opportunities for active, interdisciplinary learning. This article describes 12 hands-on activities designed to expand students' understanding of acid rain. Background information on acid rain is included. (LB)

A small-group teaching method for physical education which uses grids comprising 10-yard squares is outlined. It is stated that grids can be used for both indoor and outdoor activities. The advantages of using grids and specific physical objectives which can be met are listed. A detailed example of an activity in which students use a variety of…

Based on the importance of "tasks" in teaching/learning, this article focuses on problem-solving tasks in a language classroom. Steps include focusing on a learning goal and topic; deciding on the problem and outcome; specifying the context of the problem; and splitting the information and assigning roles. (Contains eight references.) (LB)

The jigsaw reading technique maximizes the interactive basis of cooperative learning. The advantages of cooperative learning are that it increases student independence; promotes peer teaching; can be used in multi-level classrooms; can be used in a variety of content areas; can be adapted for use in all age groups; promotes individual and group…

The booklet describes approaches to teaching a large group of severely developmentally disabled students. The book begins with a review of the circle time format intended to foster motivation through a sense of playfulness, novel items, and opportunities for student participation and response. A theme approach to planning is advocated, and…

This article describes an activity, "four of a kind," to help foster friendships among elementary students in general education classrooms that include students with learning disabilities. Small groups of four students use a poster format to list both their individual characteristics and the things they have in common. (DB)

Describes the use of optional group projects for third-year college-level geography students. The authors conclude that this format, besides being intellectually rewarding, teaches students valuable research, problem solving, and social skills. (AM)

This study examines an attempt to train pupils to work cooperatively in a group as they worked mathematical tasks requiring concept development and application of concepts. Results were positive. (MP)

On the invitation of the principal, health workers conducted a four session programme on "Health Education" in a Country Technical College. This article summarizes the outline of the programme and the development of it through each session, using particularly the technique of small group discussion. (Author)

Presents several classroom-tested model cooperative mathematics activities, ranging from simple to highly structured, for all grade levels. Some of the activities are creating and solving problems from the newspaper; playing team-building games; exploring with fractions; and working on grouping and informal computation using a jar full of candy…

Reports on a seven year study indiating that adults each year conduct five learning projects, each one requiring an average of one hundred hours. While some projects rely on instructors and classes and some on friends and peer groups, over 70 percent are self-planned. Some high priority directions for the future are suggested. (Author/CSS)