Organized action need not depend on group consensus. Karl Weick's theory argues that only minimal shared understanding is needed and that common ends and shared meanings may be outcomes of organized action, not prerequisites. This paper reveals four communication mechanisms that generate and sustain equifinal meaning (multiple routes to a single…

The framework presented in this article about the therapeutic use of program activities for emotionally disturbed children is based, in part, on an understanding of phase development in groups. The framework is outlined according to assessment, program activity selection and intervention. (MS)

Discusses how a student's participation in a group can influence his or her behavior and how teachers can anticipate conflict situations and manage them. (IRT)

Defines concepts underlying a supportive group climate in the classroom and suggests ways to develop such an atmosphere in the social studies classroom. The teacher should model supportive communication, help students in skills related to group interaction, and deemphasize interpersonal competition. (Author/KC)

University residence hall administrators employ a variety of strategies, including group billing, to combat vandalism. Reviews theoretical and practical bases for group billing; examines potential challenges to the practice; and offers recommendations for residence administrators and university counsel. (MLF)

This book is intended to assist group leaders, teachers, counselors, and peer helpers in the development of relationships and active learning. The first chapter, "Icebreakers," begins with an overview that explains the nature, purpose, and importance of these activities. Icebreakers are used to help group members learn about each other in a…

Describes and analyzes a run of the roughest and most basic version of the ABZ GAMES, a family of games for teaching about social group interaction in situations where oppression is a key element. Adaptations for a migrant farm version and a women's rights version are noted. (Author/CMV)

Improving the quality of out-of-school time activities and creating effective learning environments is of keen interest to practitioners, funders and policymakers. Funded by The William Penn Foundation, "Quality Time After School" identifies characteristics of after-school activities that are linked to youth engagement and learning…

This study investigated information needs and use by groups in decision-making processes. Problem contexts were varied by conflict, quality, and time conditions and presented to 89 graduate level education students who simulated school board members making decisions about educational programs. The research hypotheses were: (1) there are no…

Presents some suggestions to secondary teachers on organizing small group instruction projects and provides a sample set of conduct guidelines for students participating in group work. (SJL)

Presents study results examining social pressure within sexually homogenous groups. Explains that cohesiveness, based on common beliefs, was established in half of the sample while prevented in the remainder. Reports that groups were required to reach consensus after conflict was introduced. Concludes that low cohesion groups showed the greatest…

This activity book offers students in grades 3-7 creative, imaginative ways to explore what manners are and are not, why they matter and how to use manners to get more from life. The book is divided into nine chapters: (1) "What Are Manners?"; (2) "Why Do Manners Matter?"; (3) "Getting to Know One Another"; (4)…

This monograph's purpose is to provide a basis for team development for quality circle groups involved in problem-solving and decision-making. Training group members in team building is a crucial factor for success in quality circles. The following are important needs for group members: a sense of belonging, a commitment to group goals, a sense of…

Points out the importance of effective group work in all aspects of education. Provides group members and leaders with 15 practical guidelines concerning member behavior in groups and task or structural characteristics of groups. Suggestions deal with issues such as communication styles, group maintenance, group size, and reaching consensus. (JHZ)

Explains how social studies teachers can teach cooperative behavior to junior high students. Three critical factors are length of time student groups have worked together, interdependence of goals attached to the tasks, and interdependence of means to accomplish the tasks. (Author/AV)