Researchers and teachers often invoke context to explain their particular research/teaching issues. However, definitions of context vary widely and the direct impact of the context is often unexplained. Based on research showing contextual differences in second language (L2) learner beliefs and interactional behaviors, the current project compared…

The dynamics of the student-student relationship within the asynchronous online classroom, as evidenced by conversations in an online discussion board, is a balancing act potentially more complex than those occurring in real-time. In order for learning to truly be considered effective, a collaborative, safe environment needs to exist among…

In this paper we explore the value of theoretical triangulation as a methodological approach for the analysis of classroom interaction. We analyze an excerpt of a whole-class discussion in history from three theoretical perspectives: interactivity of the discourse, conceptual level raising and historical reasoning. We conclude that using…

Forty fourth-grade students participated in a study of the effects of intact-group versus small-group discussion on type and level of verbalization and on reading attitudes. The experimental group, divided in subgroups of five pupils each, discussed seven stories; the control group discussed the same stories as an intact class with teacher…

The school psychologist should conduct half hour discussions with entire classes with the teacher present. The discussions should be partially or wholly unstructured so that students can speak freely on whatever they feel strongly about. Students and teacher gain an appreciation of others' ideas and feelings. Excerpts from a tapescript of a…

A step-by-step description is given of the development of a model for the improvement of student teacher relationships. This model was created by a student forum in workshop sessions with teachers, other school personnel, and parents. In this report the design of the workshops is described, and the recommendations resulting are outlined. Included…

Analyzes the interaction during peer response occurring in a writing class. The article identifies four categories of reader stances--authoritative, interpretive, probing, and collaborative--and examines language functions and topics discussed during the response sessions. It is concluded that interactive peer response is beneficial to students.…

The central concern of this study, which was briefly reviewed in ED 049 143, was to determine effective teaching strategies and practices in secondary social studies classroom discussions of social issues. Teaching effectiveness was evaluated in terms of the cognitive or critical thinking skills of participating students, and their attitudes…

The main objective of this study was to develop a category system to analyze or evaluate issue-centered classroom discussion (teaching-learning processes, cognitive and affective classroom interaction, verbal transactions (communication patterns), and, achievement of behavioral objectives). Behaviors investigated were: the extent of Michigan…

This study was an investigation of the socio-psychological or affective "side effects" of social issues instruction. Specific student behaviors and responses were measured and evaluated. First, student evaluations of teachers and classes (appreciation, perceived value, and logical benefits in critical thinking) were measured. Secondly,…