Fifteen students, ages three to six years, were presented with materials traditionally used in Montessori preschools to teach seriation. Children who were presented the materials with limited discussion or with frequent discussion showed greater interest in the materials but did not score higher on seriation tests than children who were presented…

Describes a three-week project using cooperative learning groups where students address the question of the future of their Arizona community. Demonstrates how groups discussed, argued, and tried to come to consensus for developing a comprehensive community land-use proposal. (PRA)

Offers teaching tips on thematic writing assignments, student resubmission of papers, sharing memorable sentences from students' writings, and nontraditional grading policies in writing classes. (RDS)

Sixteen parents were prompted to increase their interactions with health care providers during their children's health supervision visits. Compared to 16 controls, prompted parents initiated significantly more interactions with health care providers, and more health and behavioral topics were discussed during their appointments. (Author/JDD)

Comparison of handicapped junior high school students (N=11) mainstreamed in low achieving classes with their nonhandicapped classmates found significant differences in the observed behaviors of discussion and not paying attention but no differences in teacher ratings of classroom behavior or report card grades. (Author/DB)

Discusses the use of dialogic learning in an undergraduate literature survey course. (PRA)

Investigates the comparative effects of three different types of study guides--interlocking, noninterlocking, and teacher constructed--on comprehension and postreading oral discussion. Finds that study guides are worthwhile instructional aids; noninterlocking and interlocking study guides produced higher comprehension test scores; and the…

The group discussion test has gained prominence as a measure of oral interaction skills in second-language learning. This article reviews test types and administration, the communicative nature of the test, development of criteria and rating scales, and advantages. A sample rating scale is appended. (Contains 15 references.) (LB)

Study of classroom dynamics surrounding discussion of controversial issues in middle schools and the complexity of teacher-student interactions shows that heated and difficult debate about emotionally charged issues can be constructive. Students appear more resilient and able to handle disagreement, skills they will need in a democratic society.…

Describes various group discussion activities for fostering discussion skills in the English classroom. Discusses "fishbowls" and "creative controversies." Outlines the five basic elements of any cooperative lesson plan. Shows how teachers can successfully implement cooperative learning in the classroom. (HB)

Describes the use of the "fishbowl" strategy for fostering class discussion of literary works. Argues that this method, which places one small group of discussants within a larger circle of observers, is an effective means of developing discussion and listening skills. (HB)

Describes a training program for classroom assistants which focused on development of reflective skills. The program used short video recordings of classroom situations followed by group discussion. A framework for evaluating the video situations and discussing them is also offered. (DB)

Describes the implementation of a concept practical in a physics class. Uses the example of students predicting and testing what will happen to the speed and acceleration of a ball rolling down variously-sloped railings. Some evidence of conceptual development was indicated by pre- and post-test scores. Suggests that a well-conducted class…

Describes visualization methods used to design projects intended to improve the quality of life in developing countries, but which are also applicable to group problem-solving situations. Details main stages of a case study. Demonstrates that the techniques improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the problem-solving process and the quality of…

Describes a classroom demonstration for stimulating consideration of personal vulnerability for contracting a sexually transmitted disease during a lifetime. Reports that the demonstration utilizes class participation, holds student interest, stimulates class discussion, and has resulted in generally positive feedback from students. (DSK)