One Master's Program, Initiatives in Educational Transformation, has integrated a computer management system (WebCT) into a learner-centered (Weimer, 2002) community of K-12 practicing teachers. Online discussions were an extension of instructional practices that supported dialogue, reflection, and self-assessment for the purpose of continuous…

Group interaction research typically focusses on behavior under "laboratory" conditions rather than in less contrived situations. Observation of natural group behaviors at different ages can effect a better understanding of their occurrence and patterning at various developmental stages. Knowledge of age-related group behavior tendencies could…

Discharged adolescent schizophrenics (17) and their families participated in a pilot program of multiple group counseling, planned to help ex-patients reintegrate into the community. Patients were selected prior to discharge and randomly divided into three multiple-family groups. Each participating family had had a severe breakdown in the…

This text explores the organization, methodology, and effectiveness of small group instruction. The following topics are discussed in detail: 1) rationale and objectives for small group instruction; 2) group roles and interpersonal dynamics; 3) different types of groups and their instructional purpose; 4) group organization; 5) skills required in…

The author trained confederates to exhibit either opinionated, moderately opinionated, or unopinionated styles of leadership, then assigned them to discussion groups. Each group was assigned a specific topic and instructed to decide on a specific policy toward the topic. They were also asked to make ratings that measured four other attitudes: the…

The NOW" program attempts the development of the basic skills for personal growth in young people. In developing the skills for personal and community relationships, the program aims at individual renewal and institutional reform. (Author)

Contrasted high-functioning and low-functioning persons in small groups using two studies based on Carkhuff's and Maslow's models of effective functioning. Results revealed high-functioning persons perceived interpersonal effectiveness as a Gestalt; low-functioning persons perceived interpersonal dimension operating independently. (JAC)

Study circles, sponsored by government subsidy in Denmark and Sweden, are characterized by small group discussion of subjects of common interest, voluntary participation, and facilitators instead of teachers. They have often functioned in the formation of public policy and in the education of citizens on important issues. (SK)

What is needed by a given group approaching termination will be determined by the uniqueness of the group. The group counselor is encouraged to rely on sensitivity and creativity in determining how to help a group cope with ending the group counseling relationship. (Author)

Whether individual study of risk problems (familiarization) leads to greater risk taking was investigated. Subjects (N=160) in groups of five or alone developed arguments in favor of the successful risky outcome in six Choice Dilemma problems. Groups may be more efficient than individuals in developing arguments favoring culturally valued…

Does collaborative learning in asynchronous discussion groups result in enhancing academic discourse and knowledge construction? This general research question has been researched in a study involving 300 students, working during six months in 38 electronic discussion groups. The transcripts of the discussions were coded and analysed to test…

Cooperative learning is a generic classroom technique that requires students to work and talk together about academic material while learning effective interpersonal skills. This packet, prepared in conjunction with the Minnesota School Effectiveness Program, describes the benefits of cooperative learning and defines its critical attributes,…

Three exercises have been developed to help participants experience and analyze the effects of seating arrangements on interpersonal communication. The exercises have been used in classes for college students and for federal and municipal employees. This paper discusses the objectives of the exercises and provides detailed instructions for…

No single leadership style insures success. The relationship between leader and group members is more important. Healthy, cohesive groups tend to follow a developmental scheme beginning with testing limits and ending with commitment that leads toward personal effectiveness. (JAC)