Describes the basic principles (referred to as commandments) of progressive education and traditional education. Argues for a synthesis of both education philosophies. (PKP)

Studies the performance of four of Minnesota's school-choice programs. Finds positive impact on student participants' satisfaction, aspirations, and academic achievement; the importance of continuous monitoring and review of choice options; and general lack of support for negative predictions such as open enrollment "could destroy our programs for…

Discusses historical underpinnings of five "burnt water" paradoxes representing both destruction (burning) and life (water): professionalism, teaching and learning, market and standards, social justice and diversity, and change. Asserts that "burnt water" paradoxes are greatest challenges facing schools of education in 21st century. (Contains 22…

Discusses seven research-based benchmarks providing a framework for the student-learning-focused reform of teacher education: knowledge and understanding based on previous experience, usable content knowledge, transfer of learning/the learning context, strategic thinking, motivation and affect, development and individual differences, and standards…

Offers thoughts on why schools, colleges, and departments of education fail to achieve excellence and three premises for achieving same involving building strong partnerships with schools and communities, building an excellent research base, and the preparation of teachers with deep content knowledge, an understanding of child development and…

Wyoming governor offers several recommendations for improving the quality of teachers based on reports from the National Commission on Mathematics and Science, the Education Commission of the States, and the National Commission on Teaching and America's Future. Involves cooperation of schools of education, teachers, administrators, state…

Discusses what schools of education need to do to prepare teachers to meet the challenge of teaching diverse learners in 21st century schools. Covers topics such as setting the stage for lifelong learning, informing instruction through assessment, understanding the value of reflective practice, and building professional communities. (PKP)

Explores the diversity challenges facing schools of education in light of the increased percentage of racial and ethnic minority-group and economically disadvantaged students in elementary and secondary schools, a percentage that is expected to increase substantially in the years ahead. Offers suggestions for addressing the diversity challenge.…

Uses Andrew Abbott's sociological analysis of the professionalization process and the legal term "jurisdiction" to explore the legitimacy of the teaching profession. Discusses professional jurisdiction, knowledge jurisdiction, and social jurisdiction. Offers recommendations for universities to gain jurisdiction and legitimacy in the education of…

Introduces a set of process indicators--derived from National Survey of Student Engagement--to determine the degree to which future teachers engage in effective educational practices during college. Uses indicators to examine differences in effective educational practices between those who intend to teach after graduation and those who do not.…

Offers teachers several suggestions for dealing with classroom instructional situations where nothing seems to work. (PKP)

Offers several explanations for why research evidence on the characteristics of effective professional development programs are seldom seen in practice. Suggests that the American cultural norm of individualism is main reason. Discusses inquiry approach to professional development that accommodates teacher individualism. (Contains 17 references.)…

Compares urban dwellers' opinions about urban public schools with all demographic groups. Finds little difference between the two groups. (PKP)

Offers several tips on reading research, focusing on understanding the differences between the use of numbers and percentages. Provides specific examples. (PKP)

Discusses case of peer-to-peer harassment of a homosexual high school student in Nevada involving "Tinker" First Amendment expression issues and Title IX peer-harassment case law. Prior to trial, school district agreed to a substantial monetary settlement, but did not admit to First Amendment or Title IX violations. (Contains 13 references.)