Describes study circles as a nonformal, learner-centered approach to education. Discusses the role of the facilitator, group format and function, and raises professional issues that group workers need to consider. (JAC)

Examines issues and special problems of older women caring for disabled spouses. Describes a multiservice project designed to provide support and respite for this high-risk group of caregivers. Implications for policy and practice are discussed with recommendations for further study. (RC)

A unit on adult learning with an exercise based on the theories of Malcolm Knowles and Allen Tough is described. After students in the class see that they actually planned and directed much of their significant adult learning, they are eager to join in the process of modifying course objectives. (MLW)

The key determinants of successful implementation of a teacher inservice education program are discussed. Strong motivation and perceived need for change on the part of the teachers themselves is a major factor in initiating a program. Other critical factors are group involvement, mutual support and feedback, external support, administrative…

Various perspectives on the training of group workers are presented in nine articles. Topics considered include: (1) problems in training hospital group leaders; (2) training leaders in a behavorial-cognitive approach; (3) micro-counseling and teacher-less approaches to training; and (4) the impact of race and gender on group work. (RC)

Several sources have suggested that the efficacy of existing mental health care delivery systems might be extended through appropriate collaboration between self-help groups and mental health professionals. There are, however, few published reports of successful collaboration between professionals and self-help groups. This paper presents a…

Describes a career development project that addresses the special needs of disabled adults by: (1) developing a multimedia-based, self-directed career planning program; (2) providing a training program for 15 disabled adults working as paraprofessional career guidance technicians; and (3) establishing linkages with educational institutions and…

An undergraduate course in pharmacology in which problem-based self-directed learning in the context of small groups provides students with an opportunity to take greater responsibility for their own learning is described. The objectives, examples of problems used in the course, and student evaluations of the course and tutors are included. (KR)

This monograph discusses the role of nonformal education in increasing peoples' powers of self-determination within underdeveloped countries. Chapters I and II review the causes of underdevelopment, ways in which the third world depends upon developed countries, strategies for overcoming dependency, and the role of individuals in promoting their…

The booklet provides guidelines, concrete curriculum plans, and rough ideas on urban adventure programs for suburban high school students. Following an overview that explains a three-phase organizing theory (exploration, focusing, action) for urban programs, there are descriptions of: a student-organized and conducted architectural tour of New…