A design group needs to sift through confusion, come together, and converse as a team before it can be productive in design tasks. At the 1994 Fuschl Conversation on Systems Design, the metaphor of lighting a fire was used to symbolize this coming together; three tables examine the relationships between the metaphor and starting a design…

Describes tools and techniques that can be used to increase creativity in libraries. Highlights include idea files; brainstorming, in groups or as individuals; mind mapping; checklists; idea processing software; new age techniques such as brain integration and flotation tanks; and an annotated bibliography of six books on idea techniques. (LRW)

A two-year study of teachers' attitudes about professional voice involved discussions among groups of colleagues about professional issues, addressing three areas of concern about dialogue: teacher interest, administrative support from the teacher's perspective, and constraints. The paper examines the importance of personal narratives to encourage…

A variety of initiatives are suggested for colleges and universities wishing to enhance faculty exploration of ethical issues and promote ethical behavior. Existing programs are noted, essential characteristics of effective programs are outlined, and both individual and group methods of addressing ethical concerns are discussed. Special attention…

Discusses the use of self-directed learning within the framework of shared inquiry. Compares this concept of authentic engagement--whereby students are held responsible for group problem solving and working together to discuss ideas related to difficult texts--to Maria Montessori's focus on independent learning within a prepared environment. (MDM)

Describes a model for preparing clients with eating disorders to increase retention in a counseling group. Methods are discussed for preparing these clients cognitively, behaviorally, and experientially. Implications for retention and group participation are also discussed. (Author)

Investigated effects of an individual's ability to process information (conceptual level) on the choice of alternative verbal conflict behaviors (tactics) in a small-group context. Members of the higher conceptual level study group made a higher percentage of overall responses, while members of the lower conceptual level group used avoidance and…

Describes a medieval history access course at the University of Glasgow (Scotland) in which non-traditional teaching methods were used, specifically collaborative group work and embedded rhetorical training for essay writing. Questions the idea of discipline-specific pedagogical practice. (Author/DB)

Argues that appropriate use of technology lies in supplemental instruction intended to complement classroom activities, not replace them. Favors the use of inquiry, discussions, and cooperative learning methods in higher education. (Contains 53 references.) (ASK)

Articulates how the term "community" has been used to identify, describe, and construct online contexts and groups--online communities. Discusses how one particular online discussion group, SpreadNet, attempts to socially construct and negotiate the meaning of the term and how such negotiation influences the (inter)actions, values, and social…

Discussion of the Internet focuses on the role of social presence and its relation to feelings of isolation and connectedness in asynchronous online discussions in higher education. Examines the participation of teachers and students in building a community of learners, and the dilemma of too much or too little social interaction. (Author/LRW)

Presents an instructional resource where upper elementary, middle, and high school students can explore the photographs of Tseng Kwong Chi to understand the idea of truthfulness and the artistic nature of photographs. Offers background information on Chi and his vision. Includes strategies for examining and discussing the photographs. (CMK)

Discusses how a networked classroom environment--either to supplement or to replace traditional face-to-face class discussion--offers English teachers opportunities that can help make class discussion more engaging, more worthwhile, and significantly more effective as a teaching tool. Considers how to use new technology in the classroom to enhance…

Discusses issues in designing orientation for university students in online programs and presents strategies used in Internet-based courses at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Topics include distance education; social interaction; cultural sensitivity; electronic discussion; faculty participation; and face-to-face orientation versus…

Presents suggestions for teaching "Year of Impossible Goodbyes" as part of a thematic unit on World War II. Includes pre-reading activities, response journal topics, discussion and essay questions, and related teaching ideas. Concludes that students will enjoy the book, which bears witness to the plight of a people and provides an uplifting…