This research examines how peer facilitators in an experiential learning model of communication in introductory speech communication courses offered at the University College of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, Canada, are able to meet the specific learning needs of male and female students simultaneously. Also examined is the perceived role of these…

The Colorado Digitization Project (CDP) commissioned the Library Research Service (LRS) of the Colorado State Library and the University of Denver Library and Information Science Program to evaluate user perceptions of the relative merits of the catalog (or database) and the exhibit approaches to providing access to digital information, especially…

This article highlights the work of Ontario teachers who use research and inquiry in the classrooms as part of self-directed professional learning. It positions action research within the work of the Professional Affairs Department at the Ontario College of Teachers. It begins with a narrative account of the researcher's work as a program officer…

In 1998, a series of focus groups was held to explore the factors that promote resilience among Hispanic girls. At least 4 focus groups, composed of no less than 6 and no more than 15 participants, were conducted at each of the 6 urban sites. In spite of the variations in Hispanic subgroup membership of the focus group participants, the findings…

This project investigated the learning support needs of post-secondary Australian students with a psychiatric disability for the purpose of maximizing student retention. Fifteen focus groups were held throughout Australia with students, prospective students, teachers, support staff, and management. In addition, three surveys were completed by 256…

A 1996 research project in St. Paul, Minnesota, found high rates of poverty and unemployment in its American Indian population and a lack of connection between social service agencies and the Indian community. A follow-up project aimed to support the Indian community in identifying its own priorities for research and action. Eight focus groups…

Differences in academic achievement among ethnic and socioeconomic groups, called achievement gaps, have been an issue in education for many years. Achievement gaps exist between upper- and lower-class students and between students of differing races and ethnic backgrounds. As a group, Black and Hispanic students perform less well on many…

Used concept mapping, along with other analytical techniques, to examine and address barriers to African-American families' involvement in the treatment of family members with mental illness. Focus groups recommended a variety of strategies for improving caregiver supports and for increasing the involvement of caregivers in the treatment process.…

Presents findings from focus group discussions that examined high school students' perceptions of human sexuality education. Results found considerable consensus among students. Students believed effective sexuality education covered many topics, including emotional/social aspects of sexuality and relationships, and they advocated starting such…

Although school restructuring often calls for modifying the roles and responsibilities of teachers, students, and administrators, most restructuring efforts involve educators, not students. A team of university researchers trained high school sophomores as documenters of the school restructuring process. These documenters helped develop the…

Describes the methodology used (focus groups, classroom observations, interviews, questionnaires, and surveys) and results of the Greenwich (Connecticut) Public Schools' external evaluation of their kindergarten through grade 8 program for gifted and talented students. Also discussed are the implementation of the findings and recommendations into…

Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 187 individuals including family members of children with a disability, individuals with a disability, family of children without a disability, service providers, and administrators. Ten domains of family quality of life were identified and described in terms of subdomains, indicators, and…

Analysis of 143 educator interviews and 40 student focus groups showed that educators in a school-based substance use and drug education program in California used a no-substance-use approach through fear messages. Survey responses of 5,045 secondary school students showed that students were not very greatly influenced. (SLD)

In 1995, Public Agenda and the Institute for Educational Leadership joined forces to develop a means for citizens, community leaders, and educators to hold public conversations on issues facing America's schools. Conversations help community members build common ground for improving schools. Success hinges on credible local sponsors, group…

Focus group interviews were conducted with 38 Hispanic parents of youth or young adults with developmental disabilities. Findings suggest Hispanic parents have a diversity of hopes and expectations concerning future living, employment, and free-time options for their children with disabilities. Key recommendations focus on implications for…