Identifies patterns of argument that characterize majority and minority communication in 34 discussions among small groups of students in decision-making situations. Finds that winning and losing subgroups argue differently (as do minority and majority subgroups overall) and that consistency in argument is a strong predictor of subgroup success.…

There is a rich theoretical base for cooperative learning. Three interrelated types have been developed (formal, informal, cooperative base groups) that provide a framework for effective college teaching. However, too much emphasis is placed on developing the skills of individuals and too little on creating learning communities within which…

Discusses how to encourage students to participate effectively in groups, both in the classroom and in extra-curricular activities, and relates it to information literacy. Topics include learning communities; collaborative learning; task-oriented versus process-oriented support; and running effective meetings. (LRW)

Training of geriatrics clinicians in interdisciplinary teamwork included group dynamics, conflict management, leadership, and team building. Pre/posttest data from eight teams identified challenges in defining teams, stabilizing membership, dealing with health care changes, and coping with stress. Training objectives were revised to include…

Former elementary principal suggests ways to improve student learning by increasing information sharing among faculty, including the restructuring of faculty meetings, adopting an inclusive planning process, and creating study groups. (PKP)

Describes one principal's experience working with teachers to overcome their reluctance to collaborate in the decision-making process. Includes guidelines for effective group participation. (PKP)

Questionnaires (n=127) and focus group discussions with students in Britain's Higher National Diploma program elicited different reactions to group work and group assessment. Diverse groups performed more consistently. Some group members resented others who "freeloaded"; group cohesiveness contributed to greater success. (SK)

Two faculty from different institutions co-initiated and co-facilitated an interdisciplinary faculty group to mentor members in experiential teaching approaches. Members shared their experiences with experiential strategies, as well as advice, resources, and professional support. Recommendations cover formation of such groups, group processes and…

Autobiographical writing groups in senior centers have become popular in senior centers. In addition to increasing self-esteem, recognizing past solutions as they relate to current problems, and helping to develop new relationships, writing groups also provide a social dimension. (JOW)

Presents two episodes from the reading experience of children in a Year 3 classroom: (1) a guided reading lesson conducted by the teacher; and (2) a group of reading sessions conducted by the researcher. Suggests that where children are given the power to make meaning for themselves, they are more likely to learn to read critically than those who…

Explains that the goal of the journal is to help group workers understand what makes an effective group leader. Recommends that examination and processing of experiences with different groups is essential to the ongoing development of leadership skills. Details several changes made in the journal that provide different kinds of information to…

Presents issues arising from an emancipatory nursing curriculum: (1) faculty investment in the philosophy; (2) small and large group dynamics involved in teacher collaboration with learners; (3) power differentials; (4) congruence of student assessment and emancipatory principles; and (5) commitment of the organizational culture. (Contains 22…

Examines the interactions of two focus students with others in their cooperative base groups as students designed, carried out, and interpreted scientific investigations. Indicates that their group interactions were not entirely positive and describes difficulties and inequities they faced. Offers suggestions as to how educators can help prepare…

In a videotape analysis of five National Issues Forums, I investigate the nature of deliberative talk in small group deliberative settings. I show that deliberative talk in these forums mostly takes the form of storytelling. I argue that storytelling helps participants overcome barriers to deliberation, such as lack of knowledge and the need to…

Training in group counseling typically includes an academic component, although little has been written about how to teach a group course except for what specific content should be included. This article suggests that while teaching group counseling courses, instructors can intentionally model effective group leader behaviors and use these…