Examined effects of information and discussion among married couples (N=36) in a marriage enrichment program. Found information had little apparent effect on couples, but discussion in groups improved couples' marriage satisfaction and their sexual and intellectual intimacy throughout the study relative to couples not receiving group discussion.…

Compares the communication patterns of individuals in racially homogenous groups to their communication in racially heterogeneous groups. Asserts that both Black women and White women exhibit different patterns of interaction when communicating in racially homogenous groups. (SR)

Special needs children can be effectively integrated into mainstream classrooms if family and classroom dynamics achieve ecological congruence. Family dynamics may be impacted by parental acceptance of their child's special needs, sibling reactions, and finances. Factors in classroom dynamics include parent/professional interactions, teacher…

Differences were investigated between communication behaviors of small groups trained or not trained in creative problem-solving. The 110 members of groups trained in problem solving participated more, criticized ideas less, supported ideas more, exhibited more verbal and nonverbal indications of humor, and produced more ideas than the 90…

To overcome factors inhibiting effective decision making by child study teams, a rationale is established for the development of pandisciplinary tools to assist in interpersonal communication, group decision making, and assessment. Specific examples of such tools are presented, and their relationships to current practices are discussed.…

Studies the effects of multiple staffing in an early childhood classroom through the use of participant and classroom observation. Interpersonal relationships, territorial ownership, and differential status characteristics contributed to differential behavior of an educator. (RJC)

Reports on a study that recorded conversations about math in elementary classrooms. Notes a wide range of functions that the students employed in their talk, and that group size and leadership greatly affected the way in which language was used. Observes a process of mirroring that offers an important way by which mathematics "register"…

Discusses the theory, nature, and benefits of cooperative learning. Considers the Cooperative Learning and Development Network (CLDN) trial in the JITOL (Just in Time Open Learning) project and examines the relationship between theories about cooperative learning and the reality of a group of professionals participating in a virtual cooperative…

Explains how whole language classes differ from traditional developmental classes and illustrates how both African American and Caucasian students benefit from a whole language approach. Makes a case for the importance of using African American literature as well as other literature. Describes reading and writing assignments. (TB)

The most important skill for the transformational leader is building relationships through positive and effective communication. Provides guidelines for supporting and encouraging group members, setting the tone for the group, modeling communication behaviors, use of voice patterns, active listening, reflective communication (paraphrasing),…

Describes an incident in which a group of 10th-grade students in a 1-week outdoor residential program in the Wye Valley (Great Britain) defied program rules, drank alcohol, and had a close call with a near-drowning. Discusses five strategies for dealing with such groups coalesced around a rebellious leader. (SV)

Three short articles highlight tips for teaching in the English-as-a-Second-Language classroom, including cooperative learning strategies, a listening comprehension activity, and ideas on why detail is essential for clarity in writing. (CK)

Investigated the task performance of laboratory work groups whose members were trained together or alone. Group members trained together recalled more about assembly procedures and produced better-quality radios than groups whose members were trained alone. Group training improved group performance by enhancing transactive memory systems among…

Finds that student discussion in peer-led groups enabled students to express themselves more fully, permitted them to explore topics of interest, and allowed them to recognize and resolve episodes of conflict better than students in teacher-led groups. Suggests that decentralized participation structures produced richer and more complex…

Describes a strategy for enhancing counselors' effectiveness with elderly women in group settings by using a pregroup reminiscence session. The interviews provided a warm-up to a more extensive group experience, served as a potential screening mechanism, and identified themes that might later be developed. (RJM)