Implemented structured cooperative-learning strategy for reading, Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC), in nine third-grade classes (n=198) and compared with nine control group classes (n=194). CIRC group outgained controls on Reading Comprehension as measured by California Achievement Test. When groups were divided into reading…

Advocates providing students more control in the writing assessment process of English classrooms. Describes how two teachers developed methods allowing students participation, individually and in peer groups, in writing assessment. Compares student criteria with Pennsylvania Department of Education criteria. (HB)

Describes a study designed to determine whether experienced biology teachers would find the cooperative-learning approach beneficial in their teaching. (ZWH)

Three treatments were conducted with 57 computer-assisted design students: students worked individually as instructors presented new commands, a second group worked cooperatively, and a third combined individual and cooperative approaches. No significant differences were found in achievement or attitudes. Cooperative learning may enable more…

Reports on the findings of a study that examined the writing behavior of eight fifth graders as they composed original mathematics story problems. Reveals strategies and techniques employed by students to accomplish this task. Analyzes student story-problem writing behavior. (HB)

A sixth-grade class built a yurt (a circular building with a conelike roof) for the playground of a special-education school. The goals of the project were to teach mathematics experientially and to facilitate growth through community service. Includes instructions and diagrams for building yurts. (KS)

Describes various group discussion activities for fostering discussion skills in the English classroom. Discusses "fishbowls" and "creative controversies." Outlines the five basic elements of any cooperative lesson plan. Shows how teachers can successfully implement cooperative learning in the classroom. (HB)

Active learning modules offer secondary students the opportunity to participate in the excitement of invention before getting "turned off" by the heavy course loads required of majors in science and technology. Instead of slogging through controlled, predictable lab exercises, students can become active producers by working collaboratively on…

Presents a process model developed for interaction and mathematical level raising focusing on the individual learning process and relates this model to research. The model is meant to show how level raising can be realized by allowing students to work in small groups on a mathematical problem. Contains 24 references. (Author/ASK)

Provides an overview of collaborative strategic reading (CSR) as an approach to enhancing the reading-comprehension skills of students with learning disabilities. Procedures for implementing CSR with collaborative groups and techniques for teaching reading-comprehension skills are provided. The role of the teacher is described and sample teaching…

In order for teachers to use cooperative-learning strategies effectively, they must become sensitized to the many complexities of the technique. Explains how a mathematics teacher-education class can engage pre-service and in-service teachers in a cooperative-learning activity that can be used both as a model and as a subject for reflection and…

A four-part violence-prevention program can supplement new security measures inside schools by transforming school culture. Programs should include cooperative learning, invitational education activities (built on trust, respect, intentionality, and optimism), the Power of Positive Students (POPS) program, and an effective parenting-education…

Describes students' reactions to a university physics class for engineering majors that was built around cooperative learning activities. Finds that student feedback supports research claims made about the learning benefits of this teaching method. (WRM)

Describes the use and effects of a continuous program for developing the instructional skills of graduate teaching assistants at a large research university. Most of the graduate chemistry instructors had positive attitudes about the project. Makes recommendations for program content. (WRM)

Cooperative games program was conducted with second graders who had a previous problem with low cooperative skills and excluding children. These games are a viable intervention for counselors to promote cooperation, fun, good health, and positive social interaction. A shift in attitude was observed during the program, as well as an improvement in…