Twenty conference participants shared their experiences regarding how each had become involved in a process where significant learning was taking place. After all the experiences (stories) were told, the group collected the insights they had gained. These 50 morals sounded like platitudes or cliches; they had very little power without their…

Examines the cooperative learning approach to elementary and secondary school history and social science instruction. Defines cooperative learning. Explains that students work in small, heterogeneous groups, in positive interdependence and are accountable both as individuals and group members. Provides details for teachers on how to get started.…

Discusses the group investigation teaching model, which combines inquiry and cooperative learning. Identifies the steps of group investigation as (1) establishing a focus, identifying subtopics, and forming groups; (2) planning the investigation; (3) carrying out the investigation; (4) preparing to share; (5) sharing; and (6) evaluation. Offers an…

Task groups (consisting of three-five students per group), for hands-on, inquiry-oriented activities can provide meaningful learning experiences, develop interpersonal skills, and save money in the classroom. Suggestions for using task groups are provided, describing a recommended instructional model, instructional strategies, and student roles in…

The article summarizes 12 group sessions intended to decrease inappropriate behavior and increase the self-esteem of 10-12 learning-disabled seventh and eighth graders. Art projects culminating in a group mural were a prominent part of the group activities. (DB)

This article offers a description of critical literacy practice and/as professional development as it evolved in a teacher inquiry group investigating critical literacy. The authors describe this professional development experience as an instance of critical literacy in practice. The entirety of this article is a collaborative product in which the…

This study examines a specific Indian/Metis teacher education program which uses the group as a support system--the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) at Regina. SUNTEP is a part of the Elementary Teacher Education Program of the Univesity of Regina. This paper: (1) discusses the support services and systems provided as a…

This paper describes one course offered in the Economics Department at the Drexel University (DU), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, that uses directed learning and focuses on public sector problems. As the opening notes, the course is titled "Learn by DU-ing" ("DU" is a reference to Drexel University) and offers a menu of…

A group project to build a model of the South Carolina state capitol building led to improved basic skills, high levels of student participation, an understanding of the importance of planning, and increased self-esteem among five 10th-grade students with mild mental retardation in a resource room program. (DB)