This is an exploratory study of methods for the preparation of computer curriculum materials. It deals with courseware development procedures for the PLATO IV computer-based education system, and draws on interviews with over 100 persons engaged in courseware production. The report presents a five stage model of development: (1) planning, (2)…

One hundred eighty 4-man groups (90 of men and 90 of women) using 3 types of net (All-Channel, Wheel and Circle) under 3 conditions (Planning Period (PP), Rest Period (RP) and Control) were run in a single session with 5 complex problems to determine whether a single 2-minute planning period after solution of the first problem would result in…

The small-group process is discussed in relation to its use as a teaching method; the objections to and advantages of small groups are enumerated, and numerous group interaction diagrams are listed. Also, various exercises and guidelines for successful group application are presented. A final section is devoted to the different kinds of groups and…

The four papers presented here include a study of group communication process among college students, a developmental analysis of social interaction, an analysis of environmental impact on interaction, and a methodological discussion of ways of studying interaction. These papers are followed by series of three discussion papers. (PS)

An approach to problem solving, said to lessen the barriers in the usual small group or committee situation, is described as a structured, task-directed method of brainstorming. Rules for brainstorming, organizing, a sample brainstorming assignment, and potential merits and pitfalls of the system are given. (MF)

Evidence is strong that the bureaucratic structure is and will remain the best one for a highly technical society, especially for one of its most essential services--mass education. (Author/MJB)

The concept of group dialectics is considered within a temporal framework. Long-term groups are considered in terms of such temporal concepts as continuity, change, goal direction, attachment and groups in process. A conceptualization of small group dynamics based on time factors is presented. (BD)

Eight "myths" about small group processes and outcomes are presented and matched against research and practice. Conclusions are drawn concerning benefits of group experience, group composition, leader impact, role of structural exercises, function of the "here-and-now," self-disclosure and feedback, understanding group processes, and the long-term…

The author attempts to show the value of using actual work problems as vehicles for development of management teams. The use of such diagnostic methods as repertory grids and identity matrices is described. Two case studies of situations in which the approach was applied are given in detail. (SK)

Subjects were 84 university and high school students. Data was obtained from responses to a behavioral goal questionnaire and the Truax Relationship Inventory. Structuring of group counseling through the use of principal actor time did not result in differential goal attainment between clients of structured or unstructured groups. Neither was any…

Extensive observations contrast the Mexico City groups by the interests and subjects of conversation of the men, the relationship of the family to the groups, the importance of kinship and mutual aid, and degree of sophistication and cosmopolitanism. (JM)

This study looks at the relationship between the size of the small interacting group (in numbers of persons) and its environment; in this case, the density of its immediate population. Results indicated a significant inverse relationship between population density and the size of small interacting groups. (Author)

A study was made of small workgroups, each of which was assigned to complete an empirical investigation. These workgroups were observed by students. The framework for the observations was Tuckman's (1965) proposed model of group development. The goal was to test the fit of Tuckman's model to the actual development of the workgroups observed in the…