Explores the effects of training children to construct persuasive arguments and to compromise in situations in which their interests conflict with other children. Found that even very limited instruction can produce some improvement in communicative performance. (PD)

Demonstrates the inadequacy of students' rating of classroom speeches: student raters were both unreliable and sources of considerable error. Emphasizes the importance of training to reduce error rate. (PD)

Describes a media history assignment in which students interview older adults about changes they have observed in communication media. (PD)

Traces the movement away from the classical model of speechwriting and proposes a new rationale for viewing ghostwritten speeches as organizational products. Notes the implications for speech pedagogy. (PD)

Covers instructional rationale, choosing the right case, case study structure, and case method instructional strategies. (PD)

Provides a personal, historical reflection on speech communication, centering on convention activities. (PD)

Television debates provide a powerful stimulus for speech communication classes as students focus on the effectiveness of debate in the political forum. This report reviews ERIC documents on the nature, quality, and format of television debates. (PD)

Includes two reviews of computer software that may serve the speech communication professional: Fast Graphs and PC-File III. (PD)

Describes a project of a Speech Communication Association Task Force that culminated in developing a list of major speaking and listening skills for elementary school students. Covers background, specific skills, their assessment, and ways to teach these skills. (PD)

Describes the rationale for teaching the cognitive context of argument and argumentation, presents an example of an approach to value argument, and discusses the role of the unconscious in argument. (PD)

Results of several analyses indicate that student perceptions of classroom climate depend on (1) whether the class is liked or disliked; and (2) the gender of the professor, with greater consequences for male than female professors. (PD)

This study, the fifth in a series focusing on the communication of power in the classroom and its role in student learning, investigated the relationship between teachers' use of behavior alteration techniques and student learning, and the impact of teachers' communication training and student quality on the use of these techniques. (PD)

Uses the judicial model of reasoning employed by the Supreme Court as an exemplar in teaching critical skills in the basic argumentation and debate course. Describes the model and course highlights. (PD)

Surveyed broadcast managers to identify (1) entry-level skills and long-term characteristics for employment in radio announcing, news, and sales careers; and (2) hiring considerations. Concludes that skill-based broadcast education is essential but that candidates must also be aware of personal characteristics necessary for long-term employment.…

Describes a student internship program with a campus public radio station that broadcasts programs for blind or partially sighted elderly listeners. (PD)