Review of experimental or quasi-experimental studies of the behavior of staff working with retarded persons resulted in 12 generalizations including the following: a disproportionate number of interactions occur with a relatively small number of clients; small teaching groups promote interactions; and structured settings promote more interactions.…

Attempts to clarify the epistemological basis of interaction analysis by exploring the modes of observation researchers adopt when using interaction coding schemes and outlining the validation requirements these options entail. Modes of observation include the viewpoint of the experiencer, the process of experiencing, and what is experienced. (JAC)