This paper investigates the effects that different patterns of similarity among group members have on a group's performance on a problem-solving task. I discuss and test hypotheses on the effects of similarity on group performance derived from two literatures: balance theory and research on homophily. In an experiment I found that the relative…

In support of online discussions research, this review classifies and describes instructional interventions and learner characteristics that affect the quality of discussions. The review will help educators better understand factors such as group structure, mentoring, argumentation, and learner characteristics that play a role in shaping online…

Groups are a fundamental part of the business world. Yet, as companies continue to expand internationally, a major challenge lies in promoting effective communication among employees who work in varying time zones. Global expansion often requires group collaboration through computer systems. Computer-mediated groups lead to different communicative…

Within the literature on group counseling and psychotherapy, the structure of therapeutic group processes is frequently described in terms of stages of the group process. Numerous group stages have been proposed to describe the social interaction and change in social interaction that is characteristic of group therapy. This study examined the…

Organizational patterns can be examined from two major perspectives. The formal structure of an organization consists of those relationships among the organizational components that are the result of deliberate planning. This formal structure tends to be static and is the primary focus of management theory. The informal structure of an…

The perceived independence and decisional participation of supervisors were related to various measures of group structure, independent of the technology of subordinates' jobs. Elimination of supervisory effects resulted in significant relationships between dimensions of job technology and structure. (Author)

This appendix contains instructions in how to chart the decisionmaking structure of an organization. Included is discussion of the Line of Delegation or Accountability, a code for indicating the kinds of influence any position may exercise in relation to a decision, description with illustrations of the form of the chart, a list of the steps…

The entire November issue is a special edition devoted to the 1972-1973 American Library Association Handbook of Organization. (SJ)

A past president of the New York State Personnel and Guidance Association calls on APGA to increase greatly its efforts to develop active working relationships among the national, state, and local units in order to involve members more frequently and directly, to provide more services to members, and to influence public policy. (Author)

Comments on an earlier attempt to create a unified theoretical framework for the analysis of organizational structure. Discusses the nature of social structure and the problems involved with various conceptions of structure. (Author/RW)

Used meta-analysis to examine duration of group experience and structure provided by leader in counseling groups from 26 studies. Group composition appeared to have greatest effect in unstructured group which was relatively long in duration. Leaders using short-term, structured groups may be less concerned with composition, as its potential effect…

Discusses two models for dissertation support groups, noting rationale, models, and examples of such groups. Offers suggestions for the development of dissertation support groups. (SR)

This article discusses the use of teaching teams to encourage active learning in a business communication class. The author offers examples of short activities that can be used to help create an active learning environment. Some of these favorite activities include homework reviews, the value line, 3-2-1 processor, and muddiest point. In each of…