This study investigated whether cooperative learning groups with the highest mean levels of knowledge of the research process, as measured via midterm and final examination scores, produced the best cooperative learning projects, as measured by the quality of research article critiques and proposals. It also explored whether heterogeneity was…

Discusses interdisciplinary design engineering programs conducted at the Polytechnic Institute of New York, especially the internship program, Sloan Foundation projects, and the characteristics of design engineering centers. Included is a list of completed projects. (CC)

Describes a college-level geography project for students limited to urban areas. Students investigate the rock-weathering process through library resources, then observe, collect, and analyze data about stone monuments. An individually written report concludes the project. (KC)

As a result of the inefficiency of lectures, the increase in scientific knowledge, and today's cooperative work environment, several written assignments for teams were designed for chemistry students. Assignments consist of fundamental topics and definitions eliminated from lectures. Benefits besides the group experience included better textbook…

Describes a teaching innovation by way of replacing standard physiology laboratories with small group workshop tasks dealing with selected physiology problems and data. Students focus on establishing a knowledge base and solving problems relating to physiology. Initial experiences show improved student motivation and attitude, and improved…

Focuses on the use of small, independent project lab groups in two different courses: (1) Introduction Methodology; and (2) Psychometrics. States that this type of group enables students to receive feedback from their peers, while also allowing them to explore an area of individual interest. (CMK)

Discusses a small group debate technique that can be utilized in any classroom that includes controversial topics. Explains the technique prepares students to give presentations. Includes information on the method, topic selection, group formation, debate location, group interaction, concerns with teacher supervision, student outlines, and…

Describes a one-week course that focused on connections between global processes and local communities using an action-learning model. Discusses the action learning model, the content of the course, how student learning was evaluated, and what the teachers learned throughout the course. Addresses other uses of the model. (CMK)

Examines how students construct shared understanding by exploring what interactive and discursive tools students use in their collaboration. Presents observations made during a series of innovative mathematics lessons in an eighth grade Dutch primary school classroom. (CMK)

To optimize professional preparation and ensure the transition of positive attitudes about teamwork from education to practice, educators must offer students opportunities to participate in well-designed, positive group activities grounded in theory. This paper presents an activity that provides class project groups a chance to work through the…

Discusses the use of self-directed learning in a large group class. Describes a workshop for developing group communication skills. (YP)

Urges the use of the small-group activities to encourage class participation, stimulate interest, and develop greater understanding of the subject. Describes specific applications of this approach in undergraduate and graduate music education courses. Discusses practical considerations and offers suggestions for encouraging interaction. Concludes…

Examines reading anxieties (and test anxieties) of students in two developmental college reading courses. Finds that group and individual anxiety reduction methods made a significant difference in the reading performance and attitudes of the adult basic education students. (RS)

Describes alcohol discipline program developed as forced referral option to combat abusive drinking and encourage responsible drinking on a college campus. Program used small-group format, leaders of varying backgrounds, and highly flexible subject content with 172 college students referred by campus proceedings officer. Evaluations showed that…

Describes how a writing teacher used Classroom Assessment Techniques to improve the functioning of editing groups in her classroom, involving students directly and honestly in classroom management and evaluation of instruction. (SR)