Task variation, which is the process of presenting both mastered and unmastered tasks intermittently during the class period, is an instructional procedure that increases the motivation and learning of students with disabilities. (IAH)

Discusses the need for developmental testing of instructional materials and gives two examples of single-subject testing, one for self-instructional materials and one for short-term group instruction. Guidelines for single-subject testing are presented, and suggestions for longer courses are also given. (LRW)

Two studies investigated the effects of group socialization procedures (teachers discussed friendship and praised child-child social responding) on the social behavior of preschool children. Results indicated that the procedures were a practical and effective method for improving young children's social interaction during both structured games and…

Investigates effects of silent reading embedded in small-group lessons typical of much classroom reading instruction. Finds both positive and negative effects--students were more attentive during silent reading and were more responsive to story content than during oral reading, but the slower pace of silent reading offset these benefits. (RS)

Argues that, if teachers do not make additional changes in how they teach when they make the shift to whole class reading instruction, new problems will be created which are as unpalatable as the ones left behind. Suggests some potential new problems. (MG)

Compares teaching emphasizing story meaning (major plot elements) with teaching emphasizing surface features of language (word analysis and accurate reading). Finds an emphasis on story meaning led to superior performance on an array of outcome measures. Finds differences especially notable for children in low and average reading groups. (SR)

Describes MATRIX-1, a small group activity that can be used to show interrelationships between various factors. Examples include values clarification; procedural phases; relationships among people; resource allocation; related concepts; and group decision making activities. Modifications to MATRIX-1 are discussed that allow for variations in…

Describes step-by-step procedures for taking apart a disk drive on an Apple microcomputer for a student demonstration. Lesson preparation is discussed, the use of small groups of students is recommended, and suggestions for teaching the lesson are given. (LRW)

This study investigated the educational process used in tumor boards (cancer case conferences) and whether the process varied based on type of board, frequency of meetings, and presence or absence of residency training programs in the hospital. These data were collected through observation of 715 board sessions of 37 hospitals and 43 tumor boards.…

Describes two problem-solving activities for small groups that motivate through the use of sundials. Includes practical work. (ASK)

Discusses two models of distance-education, group-based versus individual-based. Highlights include group-based distance education for full-time and part-time students; individual-based distance education with pre-prepared materials and without pre-prepared materials; and distance education management and research. (LRW)

Classroom communication barriers were identified by 291 financial accounting and 372 managerial accounting students. Both groups thought the greatest problems in large group instruction were too much information given in lectures, large class size, and lack of interest in the subject matter. (SK)

Describes a mathematics reasoning course at Drake University and efforts to introduce collaborative, small-group, mixed-ability activities into the classroom. Comments on the ease, difficulties, rewards, and demands involved. Discusses student and instructor attitudes towards the collaborative activities. (AIM)

Discusses three constructs--subject, purpose, and frame--and how they can be used to analyze and characterize the quality of students' mathematics classroom discussion in terms of the mathematics learning potential that those discussions provide. (Contains 17 references.) (Author/ASK)

Examines the utility of a group normative education program designed to challenge male college students' (N=71) misperceptions of college drinking norms. Participants demonstrated more accurate perceptions of campus drinking norms and a significant reduction in consequences of alcohol use. Results suggest that normative education may be an…