This paper focuses on the scientific dialogue of a small group following an experiment on motion under gravity. This research was designed to investigate ways in which practical activities can be used to foster links between upper elementary children's spontaneous concepts and Newtonian mechanics. Implicit in this is the notion that teaching…

Investigates the influence of the teacher's presence/absence on primary children's group work in a World Studies class. Discovered that, although children generally remain on task, the teacher's presence resulted in improved quality and consistency. Includes tables of statistical and observational data, as well as excerpts from the students'…

Reports a study that examined 16 educational reform networks that are used as alternative forms of teacher and school development. The results identified five shared organizational themes and five shared tensions. This paper describes educational reform networks, discusses essential elements, examines the themes and tensions, and suggests…

Outlines a lesson for high school students covering religious controversies in New York City schools in the 1840s. Issues pertain to Irish-Catholic immigrants' objections to public school religious instruction and attempts to obtain public support for parochial schools. Includes handouts concerning religious freedom, Bishop John Hughes' opinion,…

Instructors who consider creation of an experiential course in race relations at the university or college level may benefit from information provided in this article. One of the coauthors, a licensed psychologist and pioneer in this type of educational experience, provides insights regarding challenges of the course from an instructor's…

The effects of information technology on the creative performance in small groups were examined. An experimental 3 x 2 design was used in order to assess the effects of Group Communication Support System (GCSS) and perceived usefulness on the creative product and the creative process. A chat, a video conference and a face-to-face group were…

This study focuses on three new teachers, Arnie, Andrea, and Frank, who are New York City Teaching Fellows (NYCTF), a program of alternative teacher recruitment and certification that is in its third year at an urban public college in New York City. This study focuses on just three of the Fellows in order to have a more intense look into the…

A new technique for teacher education has been developed in response to the belief that teacher education's number one priority is to be concerned with the emerging self of the teacher trainee. Research on effective teaching has revealed that it is not what the teacher is taught that is the critical factor but the way in which the knowledge and…

This manual for graduates of League of Women Voters discussion leader training courses covers the planning and direction of meetings, including such aspects as selecting topics, opening discussion, starting meetings, useful roles or functions that occur within groups, working toward a conclusion, evaluating meetings, and having members prepare for…

Finland's study circles are under the aegis of voluntary associations, and are an integral part of the national education system. They are directed by six national study centers, and in certain instances are used in combination with correspondence study programs. (MF)

Group learning has a long history in adult education as a means of achieving multiple goals. However, proponents still have not addressed whether it is an ideological position, a method of learning, or a tool for affective change. (SK)

Two groups of incarcerated males aged 15-18 (four each) participated in conversation groups. The treatment group received specific conversational skills training. Results suggested that aggressive adolescents with learning disabilities may benefit from interventions designed to improve their conversational skills. (Conains 22 references.) (JOW)

Describes the study circle concept that pioneered in Sweden during the last century. Suggests that study circles can be sustained if their usefulness for education, communication, and leadership development can be demonstrated to organizations. Offers multiple forms of study circles for organizational use. (JOW)

Describes electronic discussion groups and offers tips for those new to using Listservs and Usenet News. (SR)