This article previews the emergence of "homo virtualis." Drawing on data from seven research studies, peer-reviewed published research articles, and selected excerpts of 30 months of field notes taken in Second Life [SL], the article examines virtual learning environments and embodiment through the lens of interactions of avatars with…

The Gestalt dream approach is a practical way to explore personal issues. This article demonstrates how dream work can be adapted by counselors to focus clients to direct forms of personal exploration. A four-step strategy is described. (Authors)

Critically examines and integrates studies that have evaluated social-skill functioning in delinquent and substance-abusing youth utilizing role-play assessment. Distinguishes the meaning of "social skills," describes "role play assessment," and discusses the relationship of illicit drug use and conduct disorder among adolescents. (Author/EMK)

This paper, develops the concept of "epistemic frames" as a mechanism through which students can use experiences in video games, computer games, and other interactive learning environments to help them deal more effectively with situations outside of the original context of learning. Building on ideas of "islands of expertise" [Crowley, K., &…

Columbia University offered the nation's first degree in historic preservation in the early 1970s. Almost overnight, similar programs began springing up from coast to coast. This was one factor that led the National Trust for Historic Preservation to sponsor a higher education study group to examine preservation academics and make suggestions to…

During the interaction prelude to role setting, claiming a coveted role through unilateral role behavior is strategically vulnerable. A distinct action ideal, called local action, is used to avoid role claims until there is evidence that a claimed role will be conferred. Local action provides an explanation for balanced reciprocity. (Author/BJV)

The relational concepts developed in mathematics and psychology are used in this paper to explicate the needs and responsibilities of dramatic acting and theatre research. A parallel is constructed between the emergence of the mathematical concept of function, the awakening of psychology to the concept of relationship (especially regarding family…

Uses a laboratory experiment involving role-playing groups to show that an assigned majority rule is likely to lead to higher-quality solutions than unanimity and no-decision rule. Results indicated under majority rule workers resistance to the foreman's power often resulted in a successful search for a better solution. (JAC)

Outlines the history, use, and value of simulations (role play, operational games, and individual exercises) in geography instruction. The author stresses that, while simulations improve student motivation and increase interest in concepts, their effectiveness depends on proper integration into course curricula. (AM)

Whereas multicultural advances in the area of gay, lesbian, and bisexual issues have been made for increased knowledge and awareness, little development has been made regarding counselor skill building. This article outlines a model of training using role-playing to enhance counselor skill when working with gay male, lesbian, and bisexual male and…

Argues the value of literary reading passages as the basis for second language learning. These passages can serve as a springboard for the enthusiastic exchange of ideas in which learners focus on meaning rather than form, use the target language to argue or justify opinions, or, while playing the role of a character, to engage in conversation.…

Examines processes of moral change in light of emerging concepts from narrative psychology. Argues that role taking can be better understood when narrative concepts are employed. Concludes that, where cognitive developmental and narrative approaches to psychological development differ, the narrative account can illumine and challenge categories…

This paper presents a part of a research report from a study conducted to investigate the social skills competence of students with emotional/behavioral disorders (E/BD) by the author (Chen, 2004). The purpose of this paper is to review literature published from 1970 through 2004 that are associated with social skills training for students with…

Reviews theoretical and programmatic issues in the development of a social skills training program for court-adjudicated youths. Discusses the relationship between a youth's social competence and his or her likelihood of engaging in inappropriate or illegal activity. (Author/AOS)

All people, including counselors, learn and act out a set of roles that includes both "real self" roles and other, less familiar, more uncomfortable roles. Certain principles employed in the training of actors can be applied to counselor preparation. Implications and suggestions for counselor educators are offered. (Author)