2018 Volume 2 Issue 1 Pages 75-80
［Aim］ This investigation will clarify the characteristics of group learning from the discussion processes of a group that included adult students and a group of current students.
［Method］ I carried out quantitative and descriptive analyses on statements that were made by the group that included adult students and the group of current students after their usual seminar on lifestyle support skills which is based on the participation-through-observation method (non-participative type).
［Results］ The group discussions shared a common process, beginning with “orientation,” followed by “an exchange of opinions regarding the theme,” “an adjustment of opinions,” “a resumption of discussion,” “a clarification and sharing of learning tasks,” and then, “the achievement of the group learning goals.” Although “deviation from the theme” occurred within both groups during the “exchange of opinions regarding the theme” process, “nomination” in the discussion process and “speaker bias” could be seen in the group that included adult students.
［Conclusion］ Although “speaker bias” occurred among the adult students, “nomination” encouraged the current students to make statements to improve and counteract the bias. This suggests that there is a necessity to support current students when they are in groups that include adult students so that they are able to make proactive statements.
