Observation of eight book groups and participation in one group for six years uncovered four key factors: diverse membership, variety of readings, semiformal ground rules, and informal context. Support for book groups as a way of expanding learning networks in adult education was recommended. (SK)

The Action Learning Group is a strategy used in a nursing diploma/degree program to bridge the theory-practice gap. Techniques of reflective learning through group discussion allow students to become aware of the sources of their experience and beliefs and to move toward accountability and responsibility. (SK)

The lives of six prominent female leaders (Sandra Day O'Connor, Maya Angelou, Wilma Mankiller, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Elizabeth Dole, and Mary Kay Ash) are summarized. Similarities are noted and questions and activities provided to encourage discussion by teachers and students. (DB)

Describe use of the galvanic skin response meter, in conjunction with class discussion, as an effective method for explaining the elusive concepts of "connotation" and "connotative value." (SR)

Describes a new technology called Group Decision Support Systems, which can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of meetings in a variety of organizational contexts. (SR)

Relates a teacher's experiences in a research project that tried to uncover what a teacher needs to do to get students to think deeply about literature. Discusses the theory, building a classroom community, preparing for and scaffolding discussion, and a few class activities. (PRA)

Describes the results of the mistaken identity of an Internet electronic discussion group for President Clinton's electronic mail office. Members' actions and reactions are discussed; guidelines for using electronic discussion groups are suggested; and the popularity of electronic communication is considered. (LRW)

Argues that students must be trained properly to ask reflective questions. Describes two strategies that can be used by teachers to help students improve their question asking abilities. (HB)

Counteracts the overemphasis on introspection that potentially limits composition students' progress in argumentation by endorsing a renewal of classical rhetoric and invention. Explores texts by William James and Sigmund Freud, which are suitable works to provide the framework necessary for a confrontation-based classroom approach to invention.…

Explains how to recruit members for a trade union study circle: types of people, preparation of informational materials, and guidelines for discussing the purpose and benefits of study circles. (SK)

Discusses how book clubs can function as a professional development tool for teachers, and offers advice on how a book club can become a reality. (SR)

A computer bulletin board system (BBS) called "A Place with No Name" was developed for the gifted and talented community in the greater New Orleans (Louisiana) area. The BBS values warmth, responsiveness, and intelligence; has a system of user classes to reward users who contribute most to the quality of discussion; and currently offers…

Educators and parents often scapegoat television for destroying children's minds and turning kids into passive nonreaders. Parents do not spend enough time engaged with their children in whatever they do. Many who read to their children plant them in front of PG-rated movies, Saturday morning cartoons, and prime-time sit-coms without discussing…

Describes how to use Michael Crichton's novel "Disclosure" and the film based on it for class discussions of such issues as what constitutes sexual harassment, harassment of men, relationship between sexual harassment and power, organizational responses to harassment, and gender differences in career advancement tactics. (SK)

KIDLINK is an international communication network for children ages 10-15. This article discusses the participation of street children and child workers from the association Alternativa Callejera in Mexico City in different kinds of Internet activity: one on one personal communication, individual projects proposed by the students, and KIDFORUM, a…