This study applies a Balesian analysis to the investigation of the dynamics in cooperative learning groups. The bulk of the research on cooperative learning has focused on academic achievement and social behavior with students and adults. A gap exists in the research on the dynamics of cooperative learning at the staff development level. This study attempts to answer two research questions: (a) How do individuals behave in cooperative learning groups? (b) Does behavior in cooperative learning groups differ from behavior in traditional groups as discerned by Bales? / The methodology consisted of videotaping teachers in an ESOL workshop interacting in cooperative learning groups as they engaged in task-oriented activities. The videotapes were then submitted to a Balesian analysis which compared cooperative groups with Bales' traditional groups. / The first research question was analyzed by means of group profiles. The comparison of group profiles for Bales' groups and the cooperative groups suggested that people in cooperative groups tend to: produce relatively high rates of verbal interaction; produce meaningful task-oriented input; produce relatively high rates of recall and concept attainment; produce relatively high rates of critical thinking; and promote attention to time on task. / Regarding research question two, the findings showed, that cooperative learning groups did not conform to the predicted patterns of Bales' groups. This deviation was attributed to the characteristic difference of the two types of groups based on the presence of the attributes positive goal interdependence and individual accountability contained in the cooperative but not the traditional groups. Additionally, these two attributes produced flexible task-resolution patterns, equal opportunity for input, and diminution of role differentiation. / The implications of the study suggested the potential for developing a cooperative learning group model of staff development, grounded in cooperative learning theory, and employing cooperative learning groups. Furthermore, the findings implied the effectiveness of cooperative learning groups especially in the area of ESOL staff development. Further research was recommended to continue this line of investigation. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 54-02, Section: A, page: 0384. / Major Professor: Byron G. Massialas. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1993.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_76849 |
| Contributors | Deautriell, William P., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 175 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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