A study tested a delivery skills method of instruction for reducing public speaking anxiety. Subjects were 59 male and 71 female undergraduates (ranging in age from 17-49) enrolled in a basic public speaking course at a midwestern university during the 1986-87 academic year. The Personal Report of Public Speaking Apprehension (PRPSA) which…

The Verbal Interaction Analysis System is presented as an assessment of initial, dyadic conversations. Application of the VIAS to two case studies featuring mildly to moderately intellectually disabled adults shows how the VIAS provides an index of competence and assists in the development of specific treatment strategies. (Author/JDD)

Instructional applications of Q methodology (a set of procedures that can be used in studying the subjective nature of things) provide a means for teaching communication skills, analyzing thinking patterns, making comparative analyses, and structuring intrapersonal processes. Taking the best from quantitative and qualitative research methods,…

School communications are becoming increasingly sensitive and complex. Although research identifies several purposes for communications, there is little agreement on a common definition or best methods to increase effectiveness. This article explores communication methods currently being used by South Carolina superintendents and implications of…

This advanced typewriting course integrates typing instruction with the teaching of improved business writing skills. An example of a unit on letter-writing is provided, which emphasizes using concise phrases, short words, correct words, and active voice. Composing letters is also discussed.

Investigates how cultural groups differ in the relative importance they attach to conversational constraints. Suggests that the perceived importance of clarity is higher in the more individualistic cultures but that the perceived importance of avoiding hurting the hearer's feelings and of minimizing imposition is higher in the more collectivistic…

Describes the Interpersonal Perception Task (IPT), a videotape of brief scenes for teaching about verbal and nonverbal communication. Reports that the IPT includes all communication channels, several categories of interaction, and an objective criterion of accurate judgment. Discusses communications cues, using the IPT to introduce research…

Describes a model for the cross-cultural training of adults. Three learning steps are explained, including (1) values, beliefs, and assumptions of American culture contrasted with those of the host culture; (2) specific communication situations analyzed in terms of formal, prescriptive behaviors; and (3) contact with people and situations of the…

Evaluates and describes a training program to improve verbal communication skills in slightly retarded eleven-year-olds. Students described objects to a listener, watched demonstrations of effective communication, and received evaluations of their communication. The program was effective in teaching these children to describe salient features…

A study evaluated a reading and writing program to help four children with autism acquire functional communication skills. A comparison of the rate of acquisition of reading and writing skills to the rate of acquiring receptive and expressive signs found that the acquisition of reading and writing was more successful. (Contains references.)…

Outlines principles underlying the theory of polyrepresentation as it applies to user cognitive space and information space of information retrieval (IR) systems. A discussion and diagram illustrate the interactive communication that takes place between users and IR systems in order to complete work tasks such as retrieving full text information.…

Describes parallel persuasive processes between social or political activism and personal self-advocacy in a study of AIDS activism and communication patterns between people with HIV or AIDS and health care personnel. Encourages greater patient education about the illness and treatment options. Promotes a more assertive stance toward health care,…

Strategies must be developed to assist in making the parent teacher conference run smoothly. The feelings and goals of the parents need to be taken into consideration. Nonverbal as well as verbal strategies should be designed. (JN)

A Communication Opportunity Group Scheme, which develops formal language and thinking, has been successful in enhancing the performance of a wide range of pupils with and without disabilities. Evidence is presented to illustrate its successful use with 24 children with inappropriate behavior and limited social interaction. (Contains references.)…

Describes the Honeywell productivity plan. Elements of this plan which are discussed include program management, the role of novelty, newsletters, incentives and recognition, ground rules, and feedback. (CT)