This study explores the efficacy of two methods of teaching students, modeling and concept formation, to express warranted uncertainty in classroom discussions and in written work. The subjects were fifth graders from a lower middle class background who were divided into four groups: (1) a control group, (2) a group that observed a model express…

Concludes that video teleconferencing may be a more effective method of dealing with complex group problem solving than face-to-face meetings. Discusses reasons for and implications of this finding. (PD)

Teachers can aid students in solving problems by developing self-help groups in the classroom. As group facilitator, the teacher has students identify their problems, respond to problems, develop action plans, and then follow up on progress. (DF)

Discusses previous research on the potential of small-group activities in both research and instructional contexts, and considers the use of a science task as a context for group problem-solving. (MLH)

The Third International Math and Science Study (TIMSS) concluded that teaching is a cultural activity. But do claims about teaching based largely in comparisons of math teachers also apply to teaching in disciplines with less well-defined problems, like civics? What is gained and what is lost when the cultural aspect of teaching becomes the focus?…

Describes some of the common elements in activities of non-therapeutic groups (such as Synanon Recovery, etc.) and suggests kinds of persons most likely to be helped by them. (CJ)

Current training programs generally address technical skills needed for department administration, but generally do not treat interpersonal problem-solving skills. A method found effective is the use of trigger films and discussion. Simulated but realistic situations are presented that represent common staff problems and managerial tasks. (MSE)

A decision story is a brief scenario describing a health problem which might be faced in real life. Such topics as venereal disease, drug use, and nutrition can be explored by use of the decision-making model. The phases involved in processing the decision story strategy are described. (JN)

Presents strategies for encouraging dialog with students from eliciting preconceptions to bringing closure to a unit. Includes the general structure of an instructional unit that employs dialog, strategies for teachers to use, and strategies for students which include active listening. (DDR)

Forty U.S. and 70 Israeli occupational therapy students received lecture or group discussion treatments in groups based on active versus reflective learning styles. Matching reflective style with lectures and active style with discussion resulted in better problem-solving performance and shorter learning time. (SK)

Proposes 10 hypothetical "mini-cases," and calls upon upperclass technical writing students either to select from 1 of 4 given responses or to devise their own. Explains that, after choosing answers, students collaborate to devise the best answers, then talk about their solutions in open class discussion. Provides suggested answers. (SG)

Discusses the importance of student questions as tools of instruction and as indicators of student misconceptions. Suggests different ways in which students may gain an understanding of biological concepts through discussion of popular movies and biological problems. (CW)

This essay describes the use of I Ching hexagrams as a focus to improve the ability of college student groups to evolve creative solutions and improve decision-making skills. The philosophy of I Ching is briefly explained, and examples are given of hexagram interpretations which are applicable to group discussion and problem solving. (DB)

A double procedure for meetings is proposed: one dealing with general administrative matters and the other with "free association of ideas" to solve problems. Examples of problem solving by mentors of gifted underachievers illustrate the approach. (DB)