Focuses on providing music education programs for adults. Talks about model programs geared to adults just beginning to study music, as well as those returning to study after many years. Offers a description of adult learners and how to use group instruction with adults. (CMK)

Reviews the literature related to creating effective learning groups in face-to-face and virtual environments for distance education using research from cooperative learning, computer-mediated communication, organizational development, and group dynamics. Highlights include creating the groups, structuring the learning activities, and facilitating…

Describes a three-week language-study unit in which students search for the meaning of their names. Describes how students use reference works, create symbolic drawings, read stories and articles, record information in their journals, interview family members, and work in small groups drafting and revising imaginative stories based on their…

An overview is presented of the work and theories of three teams of researchers who have focused on cooperative learning. Cooperative learning has become the outstanding example of an educational innovation in which practice is informed by research; the collective leadership of these teams has advanced its use. (JD)

The following ideas are presented: (1) working together in calculus, including a handout for a jigsaw lesson; (2) a lesson on water and ecology from the USSR using the collective teaching technique; (3) the Israeli Havruta "Companionship" method for peer teaching; and (4) an origami lesson outlined and illustrated. (JD)

The use of predictable and unpredictable trial sequences during small-group instruction was evaluated in teaching word and abbreviation identification to 4 students (age 8-10) with learning disabilities. No consistent effects of the trial presentation methods were found across 3 investigations, which involved progressive time-delay procedures and…

Discussion of the use of computers for presentations in the classroom focuses on their use in a calculus course to explain graphs of functions. Topics discussed include the importance of managing the group process in the classroom; environmental considerations; and projectors and screens. (LRW)

Describes how shared learning activities, including cooperative learning, collaborative learning, and small group learning, can develop critical reading and problem-solving skills. Discusses the teacher's role in guiding shared learning activities. (MM)

Describes a method for demonstrating absorption spectra of intensely colored solutions using a mounted grating and a specially designed cell. Allows a student to compare the spectrum of a white light source directly with the same light modified by an absorbing spectrum. Uses acrylic tubing to make the cell. (MVL)

Describes how students working in small, cooperative learning can effectively explore the issue of gender communication. Emphasizes that cooperative small groups--along with guidance in discussion, materials, writings, and projects--provide students an opportunity to view gender issues as thought-provoking and exciting. (MM)

Describes a class activity based on the game of "Gossip" in which a group of students paraphrases a major concept in an instructional unit, then passes only the paraphrase to the next group. Notes that this activity encourages critical thinking and helps review and summarize key lesson concepts. (RS)

An approach for increasing active student responding in special education classrooms calls for paraprofessionals to work with small groups to review and practice skills recently introduced. Through techniques such as choral responding, student response cards, timed trials, and academic games, each student in the group responds to every question.…

The program involved each adolescent receiving 10 weeks' consecutive training. The results suggested that individualized training was superior to standardized training. Skills important for making friendships were included in the program, and provision was made for meeting the needs of both impulsive and unassertive adolescents within group…

Describes a Saturday program connecting parish, school, and religious education programs in events that help families bridge the gap between learning about and practicing the faith. Describes four key elements: it is easy to participate; hands-on activities are featured; activities are big and group-oriented; and "busy-work" is avoided, making…

Taught comparative animal physiology to undergraduates (n=31) using student-centered (open-ended) investigations in small groups. Questionnaires and discussion found that students appeared to value learning through their own experience as highly as they did being taught and valued the opportunity to establish and develop skills less easily…