Well...here's some very general info. Each species of fish has their own way of doing things. But, in general, make sure the water conditions are to their liking. If it's a fish that comes from a soft, acidic environment, then you will have the best breeding success by providing this type of environment in the tank. Also, they need to be fed well. By this I don't mean feed them more. Feed bloodworms, glassworms (mosquito larvae), tubifex, ect...good quality, high protien foods (unless the fish you're breeding is primarily herbivorous of course). I don't recommend live...too much trouble. The frozen and freeze dried variety will do fine. This will bring them into breeding condition...fat and happy.
Gouramis, I think, are bubblenest builders similiar to Bettas. I have never attempted to breed them...never had more than one at a time I think. I can recommend the books by TFH Publications though. These will usually be found at the LFS or a good bookstore. They are inexpensive and give good coverage of individual species. If you can find one of these on Gouramis, I believe it will have all the info you need. The only fish I have ever raised were Cory cats...if you decide to try that, I can help more.
Logan J