Argues that the key distinction of a situated approach to studying intelligent behavior is not the method used but the focus of the investigation, specifically the unit of analysis. Discusses contemporary approaches to assessment, collaborative problem solving as an assessment context, situated assessment, intentional dynamics, and interaction as…

Drawing on culture and site-based curriculum development theories, this case study examines a mathematics curriculum committee's normative group interests and their effects on group process and the resultant curriculum document. Data analysis uncovered stakeholders' interests in professional development, accountability, and group process. Interest…

Four studies of undergraduates were conducted to assess the relative importance of quality and quantity as goals of brainstorming. Participants (n=65) believed it was more important to produce creative and high-quality ideas than to generate many ideas and believed brainstorming would enhance the quality of others' ideas (n=109). (Author/CR)

Discussion of small-group interaction and communication focuses on a study of professional librarians that tested Hirokawa's Vigilant Interaction Theory which maintains that group interaction affects decision-making performance by directly shaping the quality of vigilance that leads to a final choice. (Author/LRW)

The underlying values and principles of the "common adventure" model are presented. Features of a common adventure trip include a group of individuals working cooperatively toward mutual goals and sharing expenses, decision making, and responsibilities equitably. The common adventure model is contrasted with adventure education,…

Reports findings of two studies--one in Georgia, the other in Kentucky--of principal group-processing skills and training. Finds, for example, that group-processing skills are critical to principals' job success, especially in schools with site-based management, but that the quality and amount of such training in university preparation programs…

This study suggests that the social dynamics of the language learning classroom may in some cases dramatically alter the way cognitive processes of attention, or noticing, are deployed in cooperative learning activities in which feedback occurs, and this in turn appears to affect acquisition. (Author/VWL)

Presents strategies for making peak moments happen at camp. One camp made it a priority for counselors to do little things for campers. One counselor started a bedtime ritual where campers discussed the day's highlights and thanked someone. Another strategy involved campers writing positive notes to each other. Proclaiming one day to be…

A meta-analysis of 38 studies of social skills training interventions with antisocial youth was performed. Also examined were treatment effects for interventions that differed in group composition. As predicted, skills training interventions delivered in the context of groups consisting of only antisocial peers produced smaller benefits than did…

A day-by-day account describes Camp Greentop's first 5-day adventure camping trip, which was attended by five individuals with disabilities and their counselors. The first day was spent in games and initiatives designed to develop communication, teamwork, and dependability. Other days were devoted to hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.…

Reponses from 12 of 20 Minnesota Extension educators regarding their participation in a master's cohort program via distance learning indicated that the cohort experience affected their leadership skills and abilities and personal growth. The cohort model was deemed to be an effective collaborative vehicle for earning a graduate degree. (SK)

Law-Related Education (LRE) is a curriculum for elementary through high school students that focuses on civil, criminal, and constitutional themes as they revolve around familiar topics. LRE programs teach objective facts through the immediacy of group process. In 1989-90, LRE was active in 43 states. (MLF)

In fall 1984, the Educators' Forum was initiated to help stimulate and guide teachers studying their own practice. To assist each other with classroom investigations, the teachers hold a two-hour meeting, complete with a discussion leader. This article illustrates the process using sample topics involving cooperative science, first grade…

Reconceptualizes groupthink symptoms as observable group interaction patterns. Proposes two coding systems for detecting the illusion of unanimity symptom, detecting both degree of unanimity and degree of the illusory versus substantive nature of that unanimity. (SR)

Describes team-building activities for mental health counselors who function as consultants to staffs, groups, or other intact work systems. Provides rationale for application of strategic systems and sociodrama techniques to an adventure activity that allows a group to metaphorically enact its common issue. Provides example of a consultation…