Criticizes the variable analytic approach to small group communication currently being used by many social science researchers and suggests some alternative ways of doing research based on a human action perspective. (JMF)

Some of the features of social play in mixed-aged dyads composed of three- and five-year-old children are explored. Suggestions for further study of social interaction among children are discussed. (Author/MC)

Sociometric analysis, using job similarity, task influence, and work interaction instruments, can be used to collect and feed back information for better understanding of the functioning of specific organizations. (JD)

A report is given on an investigation of communication competence of first graders as evidenced in their use of requests for action and information. (JD)

Effective classroom teaching and learning about grief involve didactic instruction and the group dynamics of personal involvement. An appreciation of the individuality of the grieving must be incorporated. Verbatim excerpts from a workshop on helping the bereaved are included. (Author)

An investigation of the verbal "following behaviors" of 245 third-grade children indicated that selected role-taking groups of children chose, or were chosen by the teacher, to talk following the verbal contributions of certain role groups of children while avoiding talk following the contributions of other role groups. (Author/DS)

Studies communication techniques of small groups engaged in producing multimedia messages. Indicates that the quality of the product, measured by audience evaluation, is affected by characteristics of the leader's communication, openness of the group's communication system, and member participation in group activities. (JMF)

Examines the effects of an organization development intervention in seven elementary parochial schools. Four areas were studied: goal agreement, reported use of process skills, relationship between process skills and goal agreement, and diffusion of the effects of the intervention to new teachers. (Author/IRT)

Explores ways in which group skills could be used to help people isolated from their families of origin, and who feel alone and without clearly defined support systems. Surrogate families could serve the needs of both society and professional group workers in this area. (Author)

Describes demonstrations of the risky shift phenomenon in eight social psychology classes of undergraduate and adult education students. Results showed that the phenomenon can be successfully and reliably demonstrated in a classroom. (CK)

Supports the conclusion that social influence may occur prior to the emergence of group norms. Shows consistency with the general proposition that people behave in a manner they believe will lead to smooth social interaction. (Author/RL)

Sufism is an ancient tradition of experiential human development. Sufi human development specialists utilize the group setting as a major study format. Comparison with group counseling might broaden perspectives on the possibilities and pitfalls of group process, and pinpoint several important issues relevant to group leadership. (Author)

Describes a method for determining the effects of sex (or any other dichotomous characteristic) from the individual correlated behavioral responses observed in dyadic interactional situations. (Author/MP)

This study examines an attempt to train pupils to work cooperatively in a group as they worked mathematical tasks requiring concept development and application of concepts. Results were positive. (MP)