Statistical analysis of data from written forms and scales (designed to measure children's behavior in groups), observations, and interviews indicated that many educalble mentally retarded children can participate successfully in camp activities with normal children. (DR)

Student ability and behaviors during small-group interaction as mediators of effective small-group learning were examined. Comparison of test results indicated that students trained in small-group interaction participated in more task-related interaction than control students, and task-related interaction enhanced achievement and retention.…

The relationships among (a) student and group characteristics, group interaction, and achievement in small groups in junior high school mathematics classrooms and (b) the stability of these relationships over time were investigated. Interaction in the group was a potent predictor of achievement. (Author/LC)

Slang terms for hospital patients fall into four categories, three characterizing types of patients who claim more attention for their conditions than is warranted, and one made up of positive or neutral descriptive terms. The slang serves social as well as expressive functions, promoting group rapport while maintaining individual distance. (MSE)

Studied a mining company's survey feedback meeting and its relationship to survey data. Results showed the emotional direction of feedback sessions was positive and problem-centered. Structural factors affected the way groups behaved in feedback meetings, and, depending on the group's survey profile, different processes and themes emerged. (WAS)

Outlines some of the principles and conditions of effective library decision making in a group context, drawing on the research and theory literature of management and the psychology of group decision processes. Various decision-making strategies are discussed and 44 references are included. (Author/JL)

Analyzes and categorizes directional factors, and exploratory sequences related to them, via videotaped sessions of two teenage school work groups. Shows stimuli which initiate exploratory sequences are found for all directional factors in problem solving or decision making. Reveals rule-governed or routinized behavior relates to directional…

The relationships among students and group characteristics, group interaction, and achievement in cooperative small groups were investigated. Three categories of interaction were related to achievement: receiving no explanation in response to a question or error was negatively related to achievement; giving explanations and receiving explanations…

Persistent problems in managing research scientists are discussed: lack of preparation for group work, a tradition of lack of trained management, conflict between management and scientific objectives, performance evaluation, and administrative structure. (MSE)

Presents a series of five principles which facilitate the completion of performance analysis and the implementation of solutions to organizational problems. The effectiveness of the principles is demonstrated through an account of a project in which lack of control over operating room inventory in a hospital was analyzed and remedied. (JL)

Focuses on small groups in work organizations, sources of stress, and available social support systems in five articles. Includes a methodological paper on measuring social support in work groups. Analyzes the complexity of coping strategies, and the relationship of occupational and life stressors to each other and the family. (KMF)