The experiences of a group of seven physicians and medical school faculty who wished to improve their instructional capacities are described by the educational psychologist who led the study group. The participants held appointments at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and had responsibility for teaching medical students in clinical settings. The participants rank ordered their goals and took part in planning decisions for the group. Through weekly meetings, the group discussed lecturing and small group instructional techniques. Some group members developed a form to be used in critiquing lectures, and individual members made presentations to the group and heard other group member's critical comments. The preparation of slides was identified as an area of interest for the group. During the 8 months of meetings, specific practical techniques were mastered, as were understandings of a more theoretical nature. Perspectives on the group's functioning are offered, and developmental stages of small groups, proposed by T. W. Tuchman, are reviewed. Reasons for the group's success are also identified, including the interest of the members in improving their teaching skills, the personal support provided by group members, and the strong emphasis on the practical. (SW)