Communication scholars have addressed a number of theoretical issues concerning the basis of knowledge and reality. They have not, however, accompanied their theories with parallel empirical studies. Given the important implications such work might have for the interpretation and generalizability of observer accounts, two studies were conducted…

In addition to assessing observed communication behaviors, this paper suggests that SYMLOG--a System for the Multiple Level Observation of Groups--can be used by participant-observers as a foil for interpreting how their own value orientations affect their data collecting and theorizing. The first section of the paper examines the research role…

Taking a Rogerian approach, hypothesizing that groups develop through patterns similar to individuals' and that group maturity fosters excellence in learning, the authors offer criteria for analyzing group processes which may be translated into appropriate evaluative devices. One such device currently being used by adult educators is illustrated.…

This study focused on the role played by two factors--interpersonal attractiveness of group members and pattern of distribution of task-relevant information--in forming an influence base in task-oriented discussion groups. For purposes of the study, members of discussion groups who were confederates in the study were assigned attitudinal…

Video-taped samples of two help-oriented groups were rated for six leader and participant facilitating behaviors and therapeutic process (self-exploration). As manifested by leaders and participants, two help-oriented behaviors were significantly correlated. Four leader behaviors were positively correlated with participant self-exploration,…

Sponsored by National Institute of Mental Health grant MH-08274.

Since much of the recent literature concerning leadership has emphasized the study of verbal interactions among leaders and other group members (ignoring the role of nonverbal communication), a study was undertaken to investigate several aspects of nonverbal communication in leadership. Specifically, it examined whether (1) leadership messages…

The purposes of this book are to offer the outlines of a reciprocal-interactionist view of communication and education, to show some of its applications and implications, and to stimulate questions for exploration of the subject. Topics discussed in the seven chapters of the book are (1) the nature of interactions, (2) communication in reciprocal…

A DETAILED LISTING IS GIVEN OF THE REVISIONS THAT WERE MADE TO THE AMIDON-FLANDERS INTERACTION ANALYSIS SCALE WHILE THE FILM ANALYSIS OF INTERACTION RECORD (FAIR) SCALE WAS BEING DEVELOPED. COMMENTS ARE GIVEN FOR GUIDANCE IN THE USE OF SOME OF THE RATINGS ALONG WITH SOME GROUND RULES AND GUIDELINES FOR MAKING A FILM RATING. RELATED REPORTS ARE AA…

Guidelines are offered for college professors conducting a college course for credit to a group of teachers on-site in their school. The problems implicit in this situation are pointed out, and specific recommendations are made for overcoming them. (JD)

There is growing evidence of the special benefits to be derived from self-directed learning groups, in which students operate without an instructor, determining for themselves the rate and manner in which to study course material and to evaluate their performance. At Hope College, 54 students enrolled in a social psychology course in Fall 1966…

This paper describes a study that compared the use of consensual, nominal, and conventional decision-making techniques in established and ad hoc groups. The impact of the structural interventions on group decision quality and group attitudes is examined and the appropriateness of the techniques in various situation is discussed. Findings of the…

The author considers group therapy as one of the most appropriate approaches to help psychotic patients, especially schizophrenics. He advocates the formation of four graded groups of patients based on the seriousness of their problems. The first is an intake group formed of newly admitted patients. Interaction in a group situation provides the…

The ultimate goal of a learning group is to help learners achieve their goals and objectives and to help them learn to live in a rapidly changing and evolving society. Within the context of social change, the author examines how internal dynamics can be used to aid a teacher in developing an effective learning group. Drawing from psychology,…

The purpose of this paper was to measure small groups at various stages of their development and observe the effects of changes in group process on emergence of role types and the impact these roles have on group membership as a whole. Most small group measuring instruments have been built around a task-leader or socio-emotional leader dichotomy.…