Scholars proposed it would be possible to enhance group effectiveness and functioning if people could develop a better appreciation of the processes surrounding group development (M. K. Smith, 2005). The action research study explored the facilitation of a synthesis and application teaching approach for group projects in the practice of two undergraduate online organizational behavior courses at a four-year university. The action research study sought to determine the effects on student appreciation of group processes, on group effectiveness and functioning, and on instructor teaching practices when the Tuckman group development model is used as a pedagogical tool (Tuckman, 1965). The study showed a synthesis and application teaching approach has positive effects on student appreciation of group processes, on group effectiveness and functioning, and on the instructor's teaching practices. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]