Examines brainstorming as an aid to creative group problem solving. Presents a history of its practice, a survey of empirical studies, and theoretical explanations for the superiority of individual over group brainstorming. (PD)

Investigates the relationship between evaluations of the teaching effectiveness of discussion group leaders and (1) teaching status (undergraduate or graduate), (2) sex of section leader, and (3) sex-typing. Results show that undergraduate teaching assistants are respected and successful section leaders, possibly because of their closeness in age…

Results of a two-year followup study are reported of students in a course on social work with groups in which the only mechanism for evaluation of learning was a small group oral examination. The effectiveness of the method is discussed regarding responsiveness to student self-image and promotion of theory/practice integration. (Author/LBH)

Recommends a classroom exercise to demonstrate intergroup relations. Possible learning outcomes include conflict resolution, decision-making, trust, and increased understanding of differences between competitive and collaborative behavior. (Author/DB)

Suggests methods for teaching gifted children to read that will not bore them or make them repeat skills they have already mastered. (MKM)

Demonstrates how small group discussion can be used as a teaching strategy across secondary school subject areas. (MH)

Values clarification, a relatively new form of humanistic education, was compared with a traditional lecture-discussion approach to teaching a survey course in health science to undergraduates. It was concluded that the objectives of a survey course in health science may be equally attained by either of the instructional procedures. (Author)

Discusses a short list of positive ways parents can use television to help their children. (Author/RK)

Contrasts "layering" and "assimilating" models of learning, preferring the model in which new information is affected by and fused with previous knowledge. Considers how literature study can contribute to cognitive growth, calling for the focused use of in-class discussion to help students arrive at profound responses to literature. (DMM)

A "colloqution module" (an instructional unit/strategy used in a conversation) consists of a reading assignment and a series of questions/activities. The strategy is suggested as an alternative to the lecture method. A sample module on insecticides (together with design information and advantages/disadvantages) is included. (DH)

Looks at ways to improve students' writing through use of classroom writing programs that emphasize revisions or rewriting. Identifies types of revisions to be made and suggests ways to help students focus on their purpose, including self-selection of topics, publishing and conferencing. (PCB)

An experimental study designed to study a teaching system to help students develop and understand the meaning of mathematics is described. Debates, a key aspect of this method, were viewed favorably by a majority of the students. (MNS)

Reports on a study that investigated the quantity, quality, and distribution of talk generated by the use of a computer program when working with a class of six and seven-year-old children. Outlines practical implications for the teacher when using computers to generate talk in the classroom. (ARH)

States that developing the ability to think is the primary goal of social studies education. Examines the renewed attention that is being focused on this skill. Reviews the inquiry method, questioning, and discussion as means of promoting thinking in the classroom. (GEA)

In an attempt to clarify the confusion about the teaching of morality in the classroom, the author discusses the distinction between the concepts of morality and convention. Young children can distinguish between rules and moral principles, and successful moral discussion is more likely to occur in classrooms employing cooperative goal structures.…