Assessed effects of intensive problem-solving training on outcomes related to counseling. Undergraduates participated in problem-solving workshop. Results indicated that training influenced the quality of response, but training did not increase the number of subjects' alternatives. (Author)

Fifteen fifth graders in a dilemma discussion group which viewed films that sought answers to dilemmas and then discussed possible solutions were subsequently found to be more generous (altruistic) than their control group counterparts. Implications for educators, psychologists, and researchers are discussed. (NEC)

Describes and gives sample of using Guided Design as an instructional strategy for English-as-a-second-language classes with two main objectives: (1) teaching subject matter, and (2) teaching decision-making skills. Goals achieved include using class time for speaking, freeing the teacher to observe individual student errors, and planning later…

Describes a series of group meetings for prospective adoptive couples in which participants explored issues related to rearing adopted children with special needs. Results of informal evaluation by participants are reported. (RH)

Two teaching methods, self-paced reading and self-paced reading and discussion groups, were investigated to determine their effects on the behaviors of college students taking a course in human sexuality. (JD)

The author describes a teaching technique that can be used in some large classes in college mathematics. (PK)

The article describes a group formed by a guidance counselor and art teacher concerned with meeting the needs and problems of artistically gifted high school students. (PHR)

Discusses the use of an advertising symbol to demonstrate levels of meaning a symbol may have. (TJ)

Successful meetings depend largely on (1) appropriate style of leadership, (2) choice of meeting form (full staff, committee), (3) orderliness of the decision-making process, and (4) effective conduct of discussion. (MB)

The authors examine their own experiences with the small study group method used in professional continuing education in the optometric profession, offering some observations and tentative conclusions for other professionals considering the method. (WL)

Notes that students' own experiences and assumptions often affect their comprehension of and response to text. Argues that drama, with its distinctive oral and visual cues, enables students to construct meaning, and that working in groups helps them communicate that meaning more clearly. (SR)

Correlational analyses of data from 126 Chinese business students in 32 learning groups showed that groups with cooperative goals engaged in more constructive controversy. Those with competitive or independent goals had fewer open discussions. Groups engaged in constructive controversy rated themselves as more innovative and loyal. (Contains 31…

Explains how a teacher reluctantly accepted an assignment to teach an independent study unit on biography to high school seniors. Notes that student interest ran very high. Touts the value of autobiography and biography in the classroom; maintains that their appeal is broad and individual and conducive to small-group work because they are plot…

Explains how teachers can help their students to explore trickster tales by reading those tales written down, gathering those passed on by word of mouth, writing some of their own, and considering what these tales tell their readers about the real world. Provides suggestions for a coordinated group discussion of trickster tales. (TB)