This report, abstracted from a larger research study on children's emerging literacy, focuses on the use and influence of computers in the education of children seven years old and younger. Highlights include placement and introduction of computers in the classroom; benefits of working in groups; keyboarding; and research on program effectiveness.…

Presents a cooperative-learning lesson in which high school students visit stations equipped with different tools to establish the midpoint of a Pixy Stix, a brand of candy-filled straw. Provides solutions for two potential stations, suggestions to extend the activity, and two activity worksheets. (MDH)

This paper urges educators of deaf students to make a greater effort to teach science conceptually to foster real understanding and produce scientifically literate students. The state of science education in general, and for deaf students specifically, is reviewed. Recommendations stress process-oriented teaching, cooperative learning, and…

A university education course in human sexuality and learning at the Queensland University of Technology (Australia) used a small-group cooperative learning approach to motivate and challenge students. Students found the small group discussion method effective in developing memory and thinking skills. (MSE)

Describes the discourse of three ninth-grade coauthoring trials (model, typical, and problem groups), discussing factors in their interactions that affected the success of collaborative writing. Three factors characterized the model group (kinds of social interactions, level of cognitive conflict, and amount and kinds of engagement during the…

Genetics, family dysfunction, separation/loss, learning disabilities, and lack of social support in school place adolescents at risk for depression. The article shares evidence that documents a link between structured cooperative learning and the resulting stronger social support relationships that evolve as peers help support, respect, and trust…

A Lehigh University project to develop interactive video materials for use in upper-level Russian language courses is reported. Russian film clips on laser disc are used to improve writing and speaking skills, stimulate students' critical thinking, and encourage students' collaborative learning. (Contains 23 references.) (Author/LB)

This article describes structured collaborative learning activities used in two graduate-level classes. Student and instructor perspectives on the activities are explored. Four perspectives emerged: (1) student expectations; (2) instructor tolerance for ambiguity and flexibility; (3) student reliance on authority; and (4) evaluation of student…

Describes how graphing calculators can be used to explore different functions, from linear to higher degree polynomials. "Globs" (circles) are drawn around randomly plotted points on the screen, and students devise functions that pass through as many of these globs as possible. Variations on the game are also mentioned. (DPM)

Describes a study that used quantitative and qualitative inquiry to determine how collaborative learning relates to the achievement and persistence of first-year community college students. Examines the experiences of students enrolled in Seattle Central Community College's Coordinated Studies Program, an interdisciplinary, team-taught set of…

Discusses the proper uses of new technologies for higher education. Topics include: the need to develop new educational strategies, adult learners and distance education, prior learning, understanding material and being able to apply it, reexamining teaching methods, the use of electronic mail and computer conferencing, and the need for…

Describes a social studies computer simulation, "SimCity," that was used to teach seventh graders in a middle school their responsibility to be informed citizens, to participate in local decision making, and to learn to work cooperatively in teams. Realism, relevance, student motivation, and future activities are discussed. (LRW)

Describes an innovative undergraduate course in information management developed at the University of Sheffield (England) that uses the Internet. The module, based on active learning principles, is facilitated through electronically mediated group project work. Results indicate students gain practical experience using communication technologies…

The principles underlying development of software for computer-based instruction and collaborative learning are examined, and it is concluded that although traditional software and hardware originate from traditions of individual learning, software designed to aid in collaborative learning originates from conceptualizations of group learning. (MSE)

Effects of heterogeneous peer response groups (heterogeneous for language proficiency and ability) on the writing of limited-English-proficient (LEP) students was investigated in fourth-grade language arts classes. After one month, significant improvements on two measures of fluency were found for LEP students assigned to peer response groups, but…