Suggestions are made for overcoming the problem posed by available mathematics computer software, which is primarily drill and practice and intended for use by one student at a time. Three commercial software programs are reviewed. (JD)

This section includes (1) "Time Saver Options" (Dishon and P. W. O'Leary), which outlines ways to teach cooperative skills; (2) "Getting Started--Tips from Teachers," a collection of ideas for all levels; and (3) "Cooperative Mathematics Lesson Plans" for developing problem-solving skills, fractions, word problems, and number concepts. (JD)

Presented is the application of this teaching technique to interdisciplinary team studies. Discussed are the educational features, preparation, assessment, and an example of charrette application. (CW)

Differences were investigated between communication behaviors of small groups trained or not trained in creative problem-solving. The 110 members of groups trained in problem solving participated more, criticized ideas less, supported ideas more, exhibited more verbal and nonverbal indications of humor, and produced more ideas than the 90…

Discusses a cooperative activity in the views of teachers and students. Cites the positive and negative aspects of the activity from both points of view. (YP)

Investigates the effectiveness of graphic organizers, directed reading, and the SQ3R strategy for learning content area information. Tests each technique in both a group social structure and an individual work structure. Finds the use of graphic organizers in a group social structure the most effective in facilitating comprehension. (RS)

Observation of the different instructional grouping arrangements used with mildly handicapped students revealed that the different arrangements produced diverse student responses, such as higher participation during individual instruction, compared with entire- and small-group instruction in mainstream or special education classes. (Author/CB)

In a University of California continuing pharmacy education course in diabetes care, practicing pharmacists lived as patients with diabetes for two days and role-played in small groups. One year later, participants reported making changes in their diabetes care-related practice, suggesting its effectiveness in improving practitioners' skill…

A small-scale study in the United Kingdom is reported that affirmed some important contextual preconditions for teachers to consider when setting up small-group talk. The conditions relate to pupils' expectations about their audience and purpose. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/LB)

At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (NY), some introductory science and engineering classes are taught in "studios," where students work on problems on computers, followed by a mini-lecture or summary and class discussion. The method replaces impersonal large-group lectures with less expensive, more effective instruction and more…

Investigated the task performance of laboratory work groups whose members were trained together or alone. Group members trained together recalled more about assembly procedures and produced better-quality radios than groups whose members were trained alone. Group training improved group performance by enhancing transactive memory systems among…

Describes the Exemplar Project, an application of cognitive learning theory to the development of an integrated electronic learning environment for college students based on group support systems technology. Theoretical foundations are reviewed, including feedback, cooperative learning, and structure of exposition; and results regarding…

Cooperative learning can help children understand and accept children of other races. In cooperative learning, students work in small teams with students of differing abilities and help each other master material. The highly structured format involves five elements: positive interdependence, face-to-face interaction, individual and team…

Nonverbal communication is a legitimate concern of English-as-a-Second-Language teachers. Some practical issues regarding communicative language teaching are addressed, followed by a discussion of classroom techniques, whole-group and small-group settings, intervention, and ways to build students' awareness. (Contains 18 references.) (LB)

A University of Limburg (Netherlands) study investigated influence of health sciences tutors' subject-matter expertise on the achievement of 1,800 students participating in tutorial groups with leaders having varying levels of subject expertise. Results indicated a positive influence of tutor subject expertise, particularly in interaction with…