In this commentary, drawing from reviews of research on literacy teacher preparation, the authors discuss points of leverage in preparation of literacy educators for deans and associate deans. Categories that leaders might attend to include: mediated field experiences, faculty development, and external reputation.

Implications from common themes underscore the need to redefine and expand the purposes of professional education and to consider experiential learning programmatically in relation to these purposes. Other implications relating to program design and to how we view and manage the process of learning are summarized. (Author/MLW)

Agencies which accept a responsibility for sharing in the training process need to be prepared to make the necessary adjustments to their programing and internal organization, but above all, they need to prepare themselves effectively for adequate placement evaluation. (CT)

This article proposes rules of thumb about the teacher education design process. The rules are grounded in the attempts at reforming teacher education at Washington University in the early 1970s, at a time during which a year-long, field-based alternative to the traditional elementary program was operated. (IAH)

The programs of sponsored experiential learning can improve their bargaining position within the institution by practicing and demonstrating cost-effective forms of operation. Effective sponsored experiential learning programs can actually increase the cost-effectiveness of the host institution. (MLW)

The application of structural-developmental theory to experiential education practice is discussed. The theory is based on the concept of stages, which are structurally whole, internally consistent systems of thought that organize the individual's understanding of, feelings toward, and actions on the world. Stage theory presents the image of an…

The need for early field experiences in teacher education is based on four specific needs: (1) the student need to know if he or she likes teaching; (2) the university need to know if the student shows promise of becoming a good teacher; (3) the student need to practice before assuming major classroom responsibilities; and (4) the teacher…

A literature review reveals differing conceptions of the learning outcomes achieved through practicums (workplace learning) in professional education. Five distinct approaches to student assessment are examined. Integration of the practicum with the instructional program provides opportunities for students to bring together a range of knowledge…

Discussion of college internship programs for college students looks at their potential for experiential learning (EL), integration of EL into the curriculum, establishment of a committee to oversee EL, program standards, program models, the student's role in selecting a placement, student orientation needs, time spent on the job, coursework and…

The Grimwood Memorial Lecture discusses priorities for environmental education, Toronto's two outdoor education facilities, four areas in which students relate to the environment (knowledge, enjoyment, aesthetics, encounter), international environmental concerns, local/urban environmental studies, field studies in urban Toronto, urban studies…