A small group discussion method of gathering feedback from students, when combined with student ratings, greatly enhanced the positive effect on teaching as compared to ratings alone. The results are explained in terms of teaching and learning as collaborative interaction. (Author/MLW)

To share information with parents of resource room students, special education teachers developed programs involving panel discussions, guest speakers, films, etc. Subsequently, a program for secondary-level resource room students was also developed, with panel presentations and group discussions. Lists of discussion topics and guidelines for…

Examines the value of literature response groups by gathering information about the dialogue occurring within them. Studies the content of talk, the functions of language in use, and evidence of reading comprehension. Finds that literature response groups are a good resource for helping children communicate through talk in the classroom. (MS)

Among the many teaching strategies that actively engage students are writing tasks, speaking activities, small-group activities, case-study methods of instruction, simulations, role plays, and field studies. The use of writing and small-group discussion by teaching assistants is discussed. (MLW)

Presents a method for observation and analysis of videotapes called deep viewing through the use of communal talk, pictures, and writing. The paper explains its applications to teacher education and details activities that link it to a greater understanding of teaching. (SM)

Examines the role of a collaborative hypermedia system, called Multiple Users Creating Hypermedia (MUCH), in aiding students in the authoring process. Students were instructed to use the annotation facility of the system to comment on others' work. It was found that those who made comments were more likely to improve their own performance than…

Describes two drug prevention programs, highlighting aspects with potential for violence prevention and suggesting areas where peer helpers could contribute. The paper examines noninteractive and interactive programs, explaining the group process and describing how to form small groups and how peer helpers can facilitate essential interactions…

Presents an instrument for measuring emotional barriers that can inhibit giving, receiving, and exchanging corrective feedback in counselor training groups. Also assesses leader behaviors that can help group members address those barriers. Testing showed that the instrument can be used to identify group member concerns. (RJM)

Article distinguishes between two types of problems: those that necessitate either-or solutions, and those called polarities, which require both-and solutions. Suggests how inherently unsolvable polarities can be managed by integrating them into men's counseling groups. Suggestions include direct teaching, individual analysis and action planning,…

Describes a group program for at-risk students that resulted in students obtaining better grades and improved attitudes and self-concepts. Project was based on the assumption that poor self-concept is the central factor in students' lack of academic success. It was unknown whether gains would continue without the group. (RJM)

Whole-faculty study groups can help the entire faculty integrate and implement effective teaching and learning practices with the goal of increased student learning. The paper describes the reasons for and the development and implementation of whole-faculty groups, then examines one consultant's experiences with such groups in Georgia. (SM)

Undergraduate students (n=239) participated in group experiments measuring creative performance. Results indicated that performance was influenced by group diversity, and greatest frequency of responses occurred from individuals brainstorming independently after group brainstorming. For creativity that required responses that break away from the…

Answers and rebuts an article by Larry Johannessen (in the same issue of the journal) that offers ways for teachers to deal with and help alienated remedial students. Addresses the issues of administrative help, the effect of the interests and enthusiasm of the teacher, and the inner resources of teachers in despair. (PRA)

Asserts that, although many researchers and teachers have written about the use of cooperative, or collaborative, learning groups, their work has focused on small classes. Reports on a study of informal cooperative group assignments used in a large (225 students) college-level Introduction to Sociology class. (CFR)

Describes how the authors have facilitated student-led literature discussions in their second- and third-grade classrooms. Outlines the basic organizational structure that fosters response-driven conversations about books. Illustrates the various ways students speak meaningfully with each other about the literature (including inferential…