Children with language impairment in cooperative work groups: A pilot study

Purpose: This pilot study examined the manner in which the individual socia l-behavioral-profiles of children with language impairment (LI) influenced their ability to work within cooperative groups. Method: Six children with LI each participated in lour different cooperativ e work groups. In each of:these groups, the child with LI interacted with t wo typically developing children (for a total of 48 different typical child ren). Groups were structured to make it possible for the child with CI to p lay a meaningful role in the interactions (e.g., assignment ai specific rol es). The success of each of these interactions was evaluated to determine t he extent to which all of the children participated and worked together tow ard a joint goal. Social profiles of each of the children with CI were obta ined using the Teacher Behavioral Rating Scale (TBRS, Hart & Robinson. 1996 ). The success of the collaborative work of each triad was then considered in light:of the child's social profile. Results: The success of the individual interactions was highly variable fro m child to child. However, the social profile of the child with tt appeared Ito:be a good predictor of-the child's ability to work with other members of the triad toward a joint goal. Clinical Implications: In facilitating cooperative groups, teachers and spe ech-language pathologists-need to consider the social profiles, as well as the language levels,of children with ii who participate. Children who show withdrawn behaviors may need support to help them become more responsive to their partners. Children with tl who show withdrawn as well as aggressive behaviors may need:a variety of accommodations,including specific intervent ion designed to help them understand the value of working with others.