The basic finding of this study was that two cooperating, discussing individuals were more effective on a concept attainment task that either two cooperating individuals not allowed discussion or two competing individuals. (EH)

Analyzes sensitivity training and problem-solving discussion groups by examining the group goals, feedback processes, developmental tendencies and leadership qualities. Focus points for future research are suggested. (MH)

Research on gender differences in group performance suggests that males excel at brainstorming while females excel at human relations and integration. To investigate the relations among gender, interaction style, and task performance, 264 college students (130 female, 134 male) worked in three person same sex groups on a production task which…

Children's (ages 8-12) interactive social responses to computers were examined. Results showed that students had not considered the social implications of using another's data. When infringements of their rights to privacy took place, students demanded penalties. Students showed preference for group problem-solving strategies. (RM)

Consensus is important in the making of a policy decision. If a decision is reached without consensus, morale and unit satisfaction may both suffer. With genuine consensus, a unit tends to willingly support and implement the new policy. After analyzing how observed small groups had actually reached consensus, the following ten techniques were…

"Pacification" as a technique of social control has a negative effect because of its destructive or disintegrative impact on behaviors of individuals in social or problem-solving situations. "Pacification" uses communication techniques which discount some aspect of the problem-solving process: the problem itself, its…

This curriculum guide outlines a course in discussion for college sophomores or those who have taken a communication fundamentals course. This guide emphasizes the principles of discussion and group dynamics and their applications to groups engaged in information-sharing or problem-solving tasks. The course is divided into two principal units with…

A study analyzed and compared four selected models in the cyclical tradition of group development as a basis for identifying possible issues and implications for future theory building. The theorists whose models were examined were Leland Bradford, Jack Gibb, William Schutz, and Theodore Mills. Both historical and conceptual perspectives of the…

The techniques, procedures, and principal findings of 15 different experiments in a research program on interactive communication are summarized in this paper. Among the principal findings reported are that: problems are solved faster in communication modes that have a voice channel than in those that do not have a voice channel, modes of…

Materials presented in this curriculum guide are designed to provide students with the information and skills they need to work effectively in task-oriented groups. The curriculum is presented in eight self-contained units or modules, each of which emphasizes a particular set of group interaction attitudes, knowledge, and skills. These include…