Examined sequential dependencies in solitary and interactive states of social organization as a function of age, sex, and type of toy in 12 triads of 3 1/2- and 5-year-old children. Each triad was observed during two 30-minute sessions, one in which objects with highly specific functions were available and one in which objects with relatively…

The redesign of a course on 'Learning' and some of the issues involved are examined. The problems and opportunities associated with group heterogeneity, and the problem of assessing co-operative assignments, and student perceptions of the teaching/learning processes experienced are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Psychology texts, dating from 1940, are examined to assess the impact of Raymond B. Cattell's work on the fields of social psychology and group dynamics. Factors contributing to his surprising lack of influence, including difficulties with the complexity, terminology, and independent nature of his work and personality, are discussed. (BS)

Strongly confirmed the hypothesis that groups employing an interacting decision procedure would produce better decisions than groups employing procedures that are either nominal (Delphi) or "staticized" (individual judgments statistically pooled). Provides clear and consistent support for the value of social interaction in small group…

Examined whether gender composition and task structure affect communicative behavior in small groups. Groups with different numbers of men and women were given a highly structured assignment and a human relations case study. Interaction process analysis supported the hypothesis only for dominance acts of giving suggestions. (BH)

Describes an exercise called "Building Blocks' that demonstrates the risky shift and polarization effects of small group discussion. (PD)

Discusses Radio Learning Group (RLG) Campaigns, in which groups meet weekly with a trained leader, listen to radio programs, read study materials, and discuss the issues. Describes in detail the operational workshop held in Swaziland to train the leaders of the RLG Campaign. (SK)

Intergroup cooperation and competition were compared to determine if they promoted systematic differences in interaction between majority and minority students. Results indicated that the intergroup cooperation condition produced increased numbers of cross-ethnic relationships. (Author/DF)

Describes a memorable year in the life of a high school drama coach and his 17-member acting troupe. (RBW)

Investigated theme development and role types in eight same-sex, self-analytic groups with male or female leadership, through the use of The General Inquirer, a computerized program of content analysis. All groups, male and female, showed a significant increase in the use of AFFILIATION words over time. (BH)

Suggests that work groups of helping professionals may identify with, rather than empathize with, their clients, and then replicate these parallel difficulties at the systems level. Presents a model for administrators to use in understanding sources of organizational stalemate and planning appropriate interventions, illustrated by a case study.…

Presents a model to clarify the facilitator's role in working with groups. The Hourglass Approach model incorporates Carkhuff's empathetic levels of communication and Schultz's theory of personality. It is designed to be a systematic and comprehensive method usable with a variety of counseling approaches in all types of groups. (JAC)

Large schools reflect the problems of society, while small schools foster peaceful interaction between individuals. (PBS)

Investigates the construct validity of the Hill Interaction Matrix--Form B, a 64-item instrument designed to assess preferred modes of interaction in group settings. A factor analysis was performed by using 134 subjects. Results indicate that the items and the conceptual format are appropriate. (Author)