The Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) program at the University of Minnesota is a primary academic support program for historically difficult, introductory college courses that serve as gatekeepers to academic degree programs. Based upon operating principles of other academic support programs and educational theories, PAL is integrated into the courses…

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 monthly journal club for residents uses detailed discussions and analyses of clinical research articles to teach the important concepts and principles of medical research in a manner useful to the practicing physician. Discussion is structured by a guide for presenting the articles to the group. (Author/MLW)

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)

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)

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)