Presents an experimental study conducted at the University of Twente (Netherlands) that investigated the learning effectiveness of concept mapping for computer-supported collaborative problem solving. Highlights include group interaction; shared cognition; knowledge acquisition; learning effectiveness; retention; creativity; and distributed…

The evolution of Project Adventure's Full Value Contract from its original No Discount format is described. Although wording varies among groups, all versions ask the group to create safe and respectful behavioral norms under which it will operate, to commit to those norms, and to accept a shared responsibility for their maintenance. (TD)

While working and playing together at camp, staff often work through most, if not all, of the stages of group formation, commonly referred to as forming, storming, norming, performing, and finally, transforming. Ten adventure-based games and activities are presented to help camp directors train staff and help them progress through these stages.…

A passage is quoted in which the meaning of one's life is the reflecting of light (truth, wisdom) into the dark places of others' hearts and minds. Personal anecdotes illustrate that outdoor leaders and teachers can be reflectors to their students or clients or, conversely, can receive reflections from them. A message from the Hopi elders reminds…

This study of distance education students enrolled in a masters program taught entirely online describes the community building process of virtual learning teams as they form, establish roles and group norms, and address conflict. Topics include interaction within groups; factors that guided group process and decision making; collaboration; use of…

Two studies examined in-group favoritism and out-group prejudice among two samples of white 4- to 7-year-olds. Findings indicated that the two attitudes were reciprocally correlated in the sample from a racially homogeneous school but not in the sample from a mixed-race school. In-group favoritism did not appear until 5 years of age and was…

Investigates the intergroup processes of English male adolescents, ages 14 to 15 years old, within the context of social identity theory. Reports that in-group favoritism effects were shown along musical preference and evaluative dimensions. States that the results support the predictions of social identity theory. (CMK)

Describes a study of students, teachers, and staff at one Brewer, Maine, elementary school. The purpose was to see whether benefits attributed to sense of community and belonging were present and, if so, what role Community of Caring played in creating such an environment. (Contains 1 figure and 16 references.) (AUTHOR)

Focuses on the British Study Group on the Government of Colleges of Education (the SGG) examining the legal, administrative, and political problems that were involved related to the SGG. Addresses the three phases in the story of the SGG, focusing on Toby Weaver's piloting. Identifies the significance of the SGG. (CMK)

Discusses group learning on the Internet and problems of unequal participation and describes the development of a Web-based learning system called NetShare (Networked Sharing Construction Environment) that uses a cooperative-competitive learning strategy to facilitate participants' equal contributions. Reports preliminary results of a study with…

Reviews a study that was designed to find evidence of factors influencing the kind of interaction found in small-group work in language learning among young adult English teacher trainees in a developing country. (22 references) (GLR)

Explores the effects of "Collaborative Writer" software on students' collaborative writing processes and attitudes. Finds that this approach helps students develop equitable divisions of labor, subtly supervise their peers, share ill-formed information, and coordinate writing that is continually evolving. (RS)

Three aspects of the formation and initial development of a professional development school (PDS) are discussed: developing interpersonal and working relationships; developing a common vocabulary and knowledge base; and engaging in genuine problem solving. The PDS is a partnership between Michigan State University and Elliott Elementary School.…

This article provides a rationale for new types of teacher induction programs, a description of an innovative small-group process that provides beginning teachers with peer support, and a brief summary of quantitative and qualitative results obtained from implementing support groups for novice teachers. (IAH)

Tested the hypothesis that the instructions that mothers of popular, rejected, and neglected children gave regarding entry into group play would parallel their children's known group-entry behavior. Hypotheses were substantially supported for mothers of popular children, moderately supported for mothers of neglected children, and less supported…