In this paper, we present and apply a multi-level method for discourse analysis in science classrooms. This method is based on the structure of human activity (activity, actions, and operations) and it was applied to study a pre-service physics teacher methods course. We argue that such an approach, based on a cultural psychological perspective,…

In this article, the author describes five types of teachers who remain in the yeoman or domestic category of the profession, that is, who rely more on standardized idiosyncrasy than on the numen of "personality" as a means of ensuring recollection among their students. These are: (1) the Mother; (2) the Martinet; (3) the Peer; (4) the Maverick;…

Teaching decisions made "in the moment" do not often allow for deliberate, well thought through actions by teachers. Sometimes we are conscious of the options that are available and we do make deliberate decisions. We may even be aware of the values impinging on our decision, but for many other aspects embedded in our teaching, deeper influences…

Acknowledging that an interested and enthusiastic teacher can create excitement for students and promote learning, the author discusses how teachers can improve their appearance, and, consequently, how their students perceive them. She offers concrete suggestions on how a teacher can be both a "visual aid" and an "audio aid" in the classroom.…

Dispositions are the engine of performance in teaching, linking inner values and commitments with action in the context of practice. This article presents a theoretical conception in conjunction with an individual case study of the process by which dispositions develop and function in teaching. Focusing on teaching that is ambitious both in its…

Teaching attitude of teachers influences the accomplishment of teaching objectives, the quality of teaching and students' learning outcomes and is the main variable in the process of higher education teaching. By referring to attitude theories and group characteristics of college teachers, this paper analyzes the elements that influence teaching…

As teachers, we want to motivate our students to learn during a unit and to continue learning about the topic after the unit ends. This article describes about a hundred methods we use to help motivate students to learn. The methods form 12 categories: (1) making content relevant to student values and goals; (2) helping students achieve their…

A four-level hierarchical model of teacher functioning is presented which focuses on the levels of operation which underlie visible teaching activity. Implications of the model for teacher development and training and for educational research are discussed. (JMF)

Discusses one teacher's approach to "advanced" English instruction. Reflects on such topics as the undigested transmission of the canon and the problems of the "common sense" style of teaching. Includes comments by two students who participated in the course being described. (HB)

Reminisces about a teacher's roles as a camp counselor and a secondary school teacher, and the formalities and customs that separate and connect the two. Wrestles with the question of how much of the informal camp counselor he needs to let go while in the school environment. (TB)

Discusses how a secondary school English teacher focuses not on the carefully plotted beginnings and endings of lessons but the middle moments, which surrender first and last things to concentrate on expressions of creative power. (RS)

Research on teaching is beginning to uncover what teachers do to create conditions that foster learning. Some ideas about teacher behavior that have been linked to positive learning outcomes are explored. Five teaching styles that can be linked to research findings are presented. (DF)

Teaching styles most effective in dealing with educationally disadvantaged students are analyzed. For the purpose of this research disadvantaged students in a secondary school were identified and given a questionnaire to determine the teacher they considered contributed the most and the teacher who contributed least to their education. The…

In this article, the author relates how her role as a Teaching Artist became complicated after witnessing her teaching partner's mistreatment of a student. She states that it is often easier for Teaching Artists to ignore or forget what they have witnessed in the schools for fear of making waves, losing work, jeopardizing partnerships or being…

This paper reports on one secondary social studies teacher's efforts to engage students in learning about self, others, and the world. Modes of presentation and learning activities are the specific focus. Observations occurred during 160 class periods in four different social studies classrooms, tenth-grade world geography, eleventh-grade U.S.…