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…

A new technique for teacher education has been developed in response to the belief that teacher education's number one priority is to be concerned with the emerging self of the teacher trainee. Research on effective teaching has revealed that it is not what the teacher is taught that is the critical factor but the way in which the knowledge and…

This manual for graduates of League of Women Voters discussion leader training courses covers the planning and direction of meetings, including such aspects as selecting topics, opening discussion, starting meetings, useful roles or functions that occur within groups, working toward a conclusion, evaluating meetings, and having members prepare for…

Finland's study circles are under the aegis of voluntary associations, and are an integral part of the national education system. They are directed by six national study centers, and in certain instances are used in combination with correspondence study programs. (MF)

Group learning has a long history in adult education as a means of achieving multiple goals. However, proponents still have not addressed whether it is an ideological position, a method of learning, or a tool for affective change. (SK)

Two groups of incarcerated males aged 15-18 (four each) participated in conversation groups. The treatment group received specific conversational skills training. Results suggested that aggressive adolescents with learning disabilities may benefit from interventions designed to improve their conversational skills. (Conains 22 references.) (JOW)

Describes the study circle concept that pioneered in Sweden during the last century. Suggests that study circles can be sustained if their usefulness for education, communication, and leadership development can be demonstrated to organizations. Offers multiple forms of study circles for organizational use. (JOW)

Describes electronic discussion groups and offers tips for those new to using Listservs and Usenet News. (SR)

This paper presents data collected from small discussion groups in English classrooms. The project from which this research is taken examines the processes of pupils' learning through talk-related activities and contributes to debates about boys' relative under-achievement in comparison to girls. Although the project as a whole looked at the…

The level of online hostility, with "flames" fired back and forth among participants, can at times make discussion groups appear to be the ultimate refuge for sociopaths releasing years of pent-up frustration. The safety of distance and relative anonymity make these verbal battles virtually risk free. This document discusses ways to personally…

Scotland's "Curriculum for Excellence" affords greater autonomy and flexibility to teachers and schools through advocating curriculum integration and experiential and active learning with greater emphasis on the processes of learning rather than detailed learning outcomes. It is in this context that the present article is grounded. This…

This study attempts to examine how students participate and interact in different discussion modules organized with different group size in an online environment. It adopts a case study methodology where full semester online course with two small-group and three class-wide discussion forums was examined. The researcher counted the number of…

Does learner participation vary depending on the learning context? Are there characteristic features of participation evident in formal, non-formal, and informal online learning environments? Six online learning environments were chosen as epitomes of formal, non-formal, and informal learning contexts and compared. Transcripts of online…