In this paper the authors present findings from a small-scale study in order to extend their understanding of using live video conferencing in initial teacher education. Four distinct steps, consisting of observation, contextualisation, reflection and development of personal practices, were identified based on an in-depth focus group interview.…

This document presents the proceedings of the 19th Annual Research Forum held June 26, 2014, at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Included are the following 17 action research papers: (1) Using Voices to Change Minds: Oral Performance and Poetry in the English Classroom (Erika Bunpermkoon), (2) Imagining Audiences: The Use…

Presents a geometric discovery involving the use of a trapezoid as a base for a pyramid. Includes reproducible student worksheet to be used as a group-discovery exercise. (MKR)

Presents a collection of activities and ideas on how to improve high school economics instruction. (JDH)

Describes classroom management and learning activity applications of microcomputers in Future Homemakers of America/Home Economics Related Occupations group activities. (SK)

Points out that the concept of winning is an integral part of American culture, especially in athletics. Argues that theater programs should not be judged by the number of awards they win--theater is a cooperative venture rather than a competitive one. Recounts how a formerly competitive theater conference has now downplayed competition and…

Describes activities that have been successfully implemented by an expert during a mathematical problem-solving course. Focuses on the identification of the qualities of these problems used to promote the development of student strategies and values that reflect mathematical practice in the classroom. Contains 17 references. (ASK)

Presents Fragrance Structured Learning Packages (SLPs), group activities designed to help students recognize the value of applying chemistry in a real-world setting. Developed by the Department of Chemistry at the University of York. (Author/KHR)

Understanding antibody structure and function is difficult for many students. The rearrangement of constant and variable regions during antibody differentiation can be effectively simulated using a paper model. Describes a hands-on laboratory exercise which allows students to model antibody diversity using readily available resources. (PVD)

Describes two techniques, behavior checklists and response tickets, for grading group activities designed to stimulate critical thinking. (SRT)

Discusses small-group apprenticeships (SGAs) as a method for introducing cell culture techniques to high school participants. Teaches cell culture practices and introduces advance imaging techniques to solve various biomedical engineering problems. Clarifies and illuminates the value of small-group laboratory apprenticeships. (Author/KHR)

Provides a cooperative-learning activity in which students calculate the horsepower of an individual by collecting and analyzing data. (ASK)

Examines the idea of developing a play through a group effort. Draws on personal experiences of seeing this kind of work since the 1970s. Details techniques that have been used with various groups in a series of drama workshops over the years. (PA)

This study explores the effectiveness of a cooperative learning (CL) approach, where students work together and elaborate concepts of physics. The group problem-solving tasks were conceptual questions from physics, where the students had to discuss and provide explanations of some phenomena. The effectiveness of the learning-in-groups approach was…