There has been a growing interest in and research on the construction of teachers' professional identity and parameters of practice among researchers worldwide. This piece examines the nature of teachers' perceptions about their professionalism and practice. It also explores teacher isolation stemming from assumptions related to…

Presents a translator's view of an international seminar in the country of Georgia that focused on creating a democratic community of learners (see p340-43, PS534652, in this issue). Discusses perspectives on interactions and tensions among participants. Similarly, delineates personal and professional experiences gained at the seminar. (SD)

Highlights the challenges faced by a teacher educator from the country of Georgia during implementation of the Step by Step and the Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking initiatives. Addresses both the difficulty and the promise of changing traditional institutional culture in Georgia that dates from the Soviet era. (SD)

Highlights challenges, barriers, and successes faced by a teacher educator from the country of Montenegro during implementation of the Step by Step (SBS) program. Presents comparative information about traditional and reformed educational practices in Montenegro. Discusses the pedagogical implications of SBS implementation, and the importance of…

Assessed the challenges faced by teacher educators from Slovenia and Ukraine as they implemented the Step by Step (SBS) initiative. Gathered information from Master Teacher Trainers about participation in educating preschool and primary children in a SBS program. Garnered important information concerning progress toward a more democratic approach…

Discusses the challenge of providing preservice teachers with the knowledge and skills needed for effective participation in a democratic society. Focuses on the importance of understanding the rights and responsibilities of citizens living in a democracy. Emphasizes citizenship for a democracy, dimensions of effective classroom management and…

Contends that the American education system needs to abandon the current trend toward holding, sorting, and indoctrinating students to be workers and consumers, an inherently antidemocratic education model. Suggests that education's highest priority should be education for active citizenry in a democratic society. Presents and analyzes John…

Describes the process of introducing interactive pedagogy in countries making the transition to democracy through education reform. Recounts authors' experiences as facilitators and learners during an international teacher education seminar. Focuses on the Step by Step higher education initiative, philosophy of education, orienting adult learners…