Documents the learning constructed by two preservice teachers. One illustrates how preservice teachers interpret children's literature to help them understand and apply academic theory. The other highlights how preservice teachers generate their own theories about the nature of teaching, learning, and classrooms while interpreting children's…

Describes how a team of college instructors framed a humanities methods course within the concept of classroom community-building to address issues relevant to preservice teachers in such areas as moral commitment, professionalism, caring, and concern, providing examples of how the community was built, discussing strengths and limitations of that…

Describes how conceptual frameworks, portfolio assessment, and faculty mentoring were used to transition a teacher preparation program to a standards-based approach, explaining that standards-based teacher education and authentic assessments have the potential to greatly change teacher preparation programs, though there must be ways to ensure that…

Explores issues related to defining teacher leadership and discusses the implications for teacher education and schools through a synthesis of the literature. Also presents a university-school collaborative framework for the development of leadership in preservice and inservice teachers. (Author/SM)

Most school systems fail to provide appropriate conditions for training employees. Individualizing staff development is an effective approach, although it requires a strong commitment by both teachers and school districts. Options of a program, the time involved, and cost are discussed. (MT)

This paper addresses issues raised in developing programs and strategies to serve Hispanic students. Discussed specifically are: (1) the demographics of California and educational implications; (2) the role of culture in the school-home relationship; and (3) the significance of language for linguistic and cognitive development of language minority…

As the use of competency testing of teachers has increased, the issue of the effect of standardized testing on minority groups at all educational levels has resurfaced. Several programs designed to raise standards and increase test scores are described. (MT)

A six-step method was used to evaluate and revise a computer literacy course for preservice teachers at Kansas State University. Sex equity concepts were integrated into all aspects of the course as a means of influencing attitudes and behavior. (MT)

This article looks at the characteristics of New Jersey's alternate route program and outlines the processes and guidelines which distinguish this program from the traditional teacher education program. (MT)

The undergraduate major review, ideally consisting of an oral examination by faculty members, pre-review submission of a reflective, philosophically oriented paper, and submission of projects and instruction-related artifacts, adds to the repertoire of techniques for identifying the most appropriate candidate for teaching. (IAH)

California state policies and regulations that force teacher education programs to limit enrollment because of insufficient resources, and discourage immigration of out-of-state teachers contribute to California's critical shortage of teachers. In addition, the quality of elementary instruction is jeopardized by regulations that diminish…

Texas Senate Bill 994 limits to 18 hours education courses which can be required for certification. This is an inadequate professional component for effective teacher preparation. A resolution adopted by American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education in response to the bill is included. (IAH)

Improvement of K-12 teaching requires an integrated, collaborative effort between schools and faculty from arts and sciences and from education. Implementation strategies are discussed; including establishment of selected professional/clinical schools as sites for student teaching, and creation of interdisciplinary courses by a partnership of…

The goals of the reform movement in teacher education may best be met by redirecting the focus of teacher training toward development of teachers as researchers. The scientist-practitioner model also allows for the application of a common knowledge base to teaching practice. (IAH)

Teacher education programs must help teachers handle children from diverse family backgrounds. Knowledge of family structures, acceptance of changes, and techniques for improving communication with parents should be included in preservice and inservice teacher education. Children's literature provides one way for teacher educators to increase…