This Support Document was produced by the authors based on their research for the report, "Investigating Learning through Work: The Development of the 'Provider Learning Environment Scale'" (ED503392). It provides readers with a complete copy of the "Provider Learning Environment Scale" (version 2.0); and an accompanying user…

Discussion of workplace conflict management examines erroneous assumptions inherent in traditional reaction patterns, considers key elements of planning for conflict prevention, and some workplace strategies to help minimize conflicts. Several approaches to conflict management, and their outcomes, are highlighted, and stages of the…

Suggests that in dealing with problem drinkers at the workplace, industrial social workers must consider organizational and group variables that contribute to a "culture of drinking," which fosters and sanctions the use of alcohol. Suggests interventions that promote a "culture of sobriety." (Author)

This article confronts the tension between creative expression and organizational realities in the workplace. It offers tips on diagnosing such components of the work setting as personal potential and ambition, supervisors' roles, colleagues' roles, organizational culture, and other variables that may influence the success of one's innovations in…

Two challenges that face educators--developing interactive professionalism in the schools, and facilitating teachers and principals as change agents--are examined in this book. Chapter 1 examines the following problem areas in educational change: overload; isolation; "groupthink"; untapped competence; narrow roles; and failed reform. A…

Offers strategies, based on six value systems, to reduce employee turnover. Maintains that understanding the value systems of people as they relate to jobs is the key to improving the selection process, and that employees should be chosen in accordance with how well their value systems match their work and work environments.

Surveys research on the connection between communication and stress, with particular application to the workplace. Reviews how message behaviors involving uncertainty, perceived control, and emotion can contribute to or ameliorate work stress and burnout. Discusses communication behaviors such as communication overload, participatory…

Like other organizations, camps need creativity, which breeds originality, improvement, inspiration, and renewal. Explains three broad types of creativity, describes characteristics of organizations that encourage creativity, lists barriers to creativity, and discusses ways that administrators can foster creativity in staff. A sidebar lists…

Ways in which organizations can break free from counterproductive reactions are outlined. The text is divided into four parts and opens with a discussion on how to deal with a new reality. It details ways in which groups strive for cohesion, introducing a model that outlines the differences people have in their capacity for changing and their…

Discusses the definition and incidence of sexual harassment, summarizes recent legal activity, probes reasons why misunderstanding exists, offers guidelines to help keep this costly problem from occurring, and cites actual costs of sexual harassment to organizations. Concentrates on what organizations can and must do to keep itself free of…

This paper examines a vareity of individual, group, and organizational communication skills for dealing with job burnout. Primary emphasis is placed on techniques for: (1) gaining perspective; (2) resolving substantive and affective conflict; (3) developing social support systems; and (4) increasing constructive feedback and employee control.…

Suggests positive ways to deal with camp staff: reduce precamp jitters and first-session doubts, personalize paycheck envelopes, schedule breaks and parties, rotate staff, permit use of facilities, keep in touch off-season, develop an interstaff "buddy" system, post a thank-you board, and celebrate staff accomplishments. Sidebars offer…

Examines how to create a professional climate in middle schools given budgetary challenges. Provides checklist of physical, academic, organizational, and social-emotional climates for assessment of school's overall professional climate. Makes suggestions for low-cost school changes based on mutual respect as the cornerstone of the work…

This book contains practical information on creating a positive work climate within an organization. Twenty separate characteristics of successful "climate creators" are discussed. Information is also included on: (1) climate; (2) climate creators; (3) dynamic characteristics of climate creators; (4) the challenge of creating a positive climate;…

Stress is an inevitable characteristic of academic life, but colleges and universities can introduce stress management activities at the organizational level to avert excessive tension. Preventive actions are described, including flexible work schedules and social supports. (Author/MSE)