Group research projects frequently are used to teach undergraduate research methods. This study uses multivariate analyses to examine the characteristics of higher-achieving groups (those that earn higher grades on group research projects) and to estimate the effects of participating in higher-achieving groups on subsequent individual learning…

This article presents an interview with Richard Chait, Research Professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, regarding the three major challenges that face college and university governing boards today--in the areas of board structure, planning, and trustee selection. In the interview, Chait shares his concern about the state of…

This paper investigates the effects that different patterns of similarity among group members have on a group's performance on a problem-solving task. I discuss and test hypotheses on the effects of similarity on group performance derived from two literatures: balance theory and research on homophily. In an experiment I found that the relative…

Contrasts open and closed therapeutic groups in the context of group development research, and reanalyzes data applying the Hill Interaction Matrix. Results supported the existence of a discernable process of development in the closed groups, while open groups with residual members showed counterproductive activity. (LLL)

Although some evidence suggests that providing treatment via service coordination teams is related to improved outcomes among youth in a system of care, the aspects of team structure that contribute to treatment effectiveness are not well understood. This study draws on team membership and attendance data to identify and describe the structure of…

The GUICO (guidance and counseling) approach synthesizes various elements of group guidance and group counseling in order to achieve developmental social and remedial problem solving goals in group settings. Counselors share responsibility for group leadership, provide structure for group events; and act as models in role playing situations. Group…

The relationship of 2 important variables -- group composition and time -- to the verbal behavior of sensitivity training groups, using 2 recently developed assessment procedures, is investigated. Sensitivity groups were composed according to the interpersonal skills of participants, as measured by a structured behavioral technique, the Group…

Provides a conceptual model developed to unify the spectrum of task-, socio-, and psycho-group processes used by guidance and counseling personnel. Describes a structure for group leaders to follow within their various group modalities using four distinguishing variables: objective, size, leader behavior, and member behavior and expectations.…

Praises "The Counseling Psychologist" focus issue (1990) for its excellent review of group psychotherapy literature and reacts to individual articles. Describes a conceptual model that encompasses key therapeutic factors and elements central to design and leadership of thematic groups. Compares three major forms of group…

Focuses upon group processes in order to assess the relationships among group composition, interactive processes, and pupil understanding when a cooperative decision-making task is attempted. Reports the nature of discussion in three broad group types and the relationship of this dialogue to pupil understanding. Suggests other related issues for…

This guide was designed to help individuals interested in developing caregiver support groups. It begins with an overview of the caregiving situation, identifying stresses associated with caregiving and factors which have been shown to moderate stress. Purposes of a support group are discussed; differences between support and therapy groups are…

This handbook offers guidelines to community colleges interested in the formation of advisory committees to the humanities. It begins by outlining the purposes and functions of such groups. It then emphasizes the importance of faculty and administrative support for advisory committees and suggests evidence that can be presented to promote this…

This article reflects upon Rex Stockton's contributions to the area of group process and outcome research. Through a series of research studies and literature reviews, Stockton has contributed to the current understanding of the precise mechanisms of change through which groups are effective. His work in the areas of structure, cohesion, premature…

Discusses: (1) group success factors; (2) mutuality of problems; (3) compatibility of members; (4) size; (5) age range; (6) sex composition; (7) length of sessions; (8) duration of group; (9) physical setting; and (10) qualifications of leaders. (EK)

Examined the relation between perceived dissimilarity to peers and several peer-reported characteristics in 478 students from 26 fourth- through sixth-grade classrooms. Found that perceived dissimilarity was related positively to perceptions that a student was odd, socially excluded and withdrawn, bullying, and inattentive; dissimilarity related…