Learning Handicapped Students' Interactions during a Microcomputer-Based Group Writing Activity

Abstract

Learning handicapped students were observed as they worked in dyads during a microcomputer-based writing activity. Their interactions were coded into initiation-response sequences of verbal and nonverbal behaviors. These behaviors were analyzed to determine (1) the probability of each type of behavior occurring as an initiation and as a response, (2) the dependencies between frequently occurring initiations and responses, and (3) the relationship of these initiation-response sequences to group performance on the writing task. Strategies employed by the dyads and the relationship of their interactions to group productivity and use of group resources are discussed Directions for future research on the group participation skills and needs of these students are suggested.