The volume is an analysis of the state of the art of small-group methods of instruction. It describes some of the more commonly used small-group techniques and the rationale behind them, and provides an analysis of their potential use for various types and conditions of instructional environments. Explicit guidelines are provided to assist trainers and training managers in selecting methods that will accomplish instructional objectives and in using the methods effectively. The procedures for planning small group instruction are considered, and the instruction methods discussed are the conference method, Harvard case discussion, incident-process case discussion, abbreviated printed case discussion, incident-process case discussion, abbreviated printed case discussion, abbreviated dramatized case discussion, topic discussion, buzz sessions, committee problem solving, and role playing. The objectives, foundations, and theory of methods of small-group instruction are considered. Small-group method research is also discussed. Eighty-two references are included. (Author/AG)