Research into classroom interactions has shown that talk that promotes reasoning can help children in their learning of science. Such talk can only be generated when teachers are willing to take a dialogic approach that is stimulating and provides opportunities for children to articulate their ideas. This research set out to determine whether the…

This article reports on a recent project in which 25 Chinese college students in an English Department of an urban university in China engaged in a series of photovoice workshops. In the context of a youth as cultural producers framework, the project was meant to engage youth in media production. This approach helped not only to expand their…

An effort to determine how group motivations and time of preparation affect the group interaction structure. (CH)

An essential first step in setting up an adequate theory of dialogue as a mode of learning and teaching is discussed. Processes of formulation in group discussion were analysed in the light of concepts drawn from linguistics and language studies. (Editor/RK)

This book, aimed specifically at new or relatively new facilitators of online education or training courses, is a guide to learning the ground-breaking techniques and skills necessary to effectively facilitate online dialogue, community, and ultimately, education. The book offers a theoretical framework and practical guidelines to help online…

Significantly more positive attitudes were found in teachers who engaged in group discussion both towards items discussed and those not discussed. (RC)

Describes the philosophy and environment of discussion and offers some practical techniques for discussion facilitation. (Author)

Outlines seven steps in the nominal group process and demonstrates each step with an example of a class group generating goals for adult education. (SK)

Describes a novel approach to the problems of group introductions and group attention in training courses. (AN)

The use of the Nominal Group Technique to identify areas for formative evaluation is described. Group characteristics, pertinent group questions, and advantages of the method are outlined. The process depersonalizes results, puts individual concerns into perspective, and focuses on improving the program (not on blaming or evaluating personnel).…

Tips for effective groups include the following: test assumptions, share relevant information, focus on interests, be specific, agree on meanings, explain reasons, disagree openly, invite feedback, jointly design solutions, discuss nondiscussable issues, keep focused, eliminate distractions, expect all to participate, decide by consensus, and…