This handbook presents a collection of over 35 experiential and adventure-based activities using only a single item of equipment--a 15-foot long section of 1-inch tubular climbing webbing, called a raccoon circle. Some of the activities are quiet, some are loud, and they range from low to high challenge levels. Different-sized groups can be…

Suggests that building unity and pride through activities, social events, and professionalism will prevent destructive conflicts among the staff members of student publications. (JL)

Part I of a 2-part article begins a search for a "Grand Unified Theory of Environmental Education" through consultation with 11 distinguished environmental educators. Proposed are 10 top descriptors of environmental education curriculum that will be used to build a singular model of environmental education. (LZ)

This book is intended to assist group leaders, teachers, counselors, and peer helpers in the development of relationships and active learning. The first chapter, "Icebreakers," begins with an overview that explains the nature, purpose, and importance of these activities. Icebreakers are used to help group members learn about each other in a…

Guidelines and suggestions are offered for successful school assemblies. The school assembly should be a positive event; an occasion for developing unity, group loyalty, and desirable audience habits. (Author/MLF)

Reports clinical observations based on time-limited groups and presents relevant data on clinical tools that accelerate development in groups. (Author/BL)

Offers eight steps for administrators to follow to develop cohesiveness among a school faculty and thus foster positive student attitudes toward school. The eight steps are divided among three distinct strategies: developing common goals, reexamining organizational structure, and evaluating school leadership. (Author/WD)

A conference held at Cluny (France), an ancient gathering place of scholars, brought together diplomats, linguists, information scientists, and academics from 17 countries to discuss the role of languages in the newly formed European Community and the paradox of unification amidst great cultural diversity. (MSE)

Describes the "Ropes and Initiatives" course for secondary school students at the Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Educational Center, Rockville, Maryland. The course is designed to increase the students self confidence, teach them to develop trust in others and foster groups interaction and responsibility. (CM)

Utilizing the Beatles' Yellow Submarine fantasy (e.g., the Blue Meanies), this outdoor education program is designed for sixth graders and special education students. Activities developed at the Cortland Resident Outdoor Education Camp include a series of group stress/challenge activities to be accomplished by everyone in the group, as a group.…

Questionnaires were completed by 103 staff and 76 parents of clients of a day training and residential agency for persons with mental handicaps. Although, in general, respondents felt part of their respective teams, differences of opinion arose with respect to team cohesiveness, and comprehensibility and participatory equality at conferences.…

Presents study results examining social pressure within sexually homogenous groups. Explains that cohesiveness, based on common beliefs, was established in half of the sample while prevented in the remainder. Reports that groups were required to reach consensus after conflict was introduced. Concludes that low cohesion groups showed the greatest…

Evaluates the 1975 California administrator group's decision to have principals form a leadership team instead of forming collective bargaining units. Although a 1984 survey of 100 principals found that most support the decision, it also revealed that 45 percent are dissatisfied with the concept. (MD)

This digest offers guidelines for group advocacy efforts on behalf of gifted education. Four potential pitfalls are identified: using an adversarial rather than a persuasive approach; assuming that people in administrative and political positions are not too bright or not very knowledgeable--or both; being impatient; and ineffectively coping with…

Using trees, open fields, empty lots, buildings, or whatever is available near the school, students experience the challenge and group spirit associated with wilderness schools. (JD)