High school students were randomly assigned to one of four experimental conditions to assess affective benefits of using cooperative and group goal structures on problem-solving tasks. Results showed that students who worked in groups performed better and expressed greater certainty and enjoyment of tasks than students who worked alone. (Author/RD)

Points out the importance of effective group work in all aspects of education. Provides group members and leaders with 15 practical guidelines concerning member behavior in groups and task or structural characteristics of groups. Suggestions deal with issues such as communication styles, group maintenance, group size, and reaching consensus. (JHZ)

A review of the research literature concerning the effects of cooperation and competition on small-group productivity suggests that results have been conflicting and inconclusive. From a methodological standpoint, the inconsistent finings result from the use of experimental tasks which create systematic bias in favor of either the cooperative or…