Increasingly, teacher educators recommend authentic, performance-related measures for evaluating teacher candidates. Nevertheless, more states are requiring teachers to pass high-stakes, minimum-competency exams. This study examined the relation between teacher candidate scores on authentic measures and their scores on certification exams required…

Few terms have been as misused and as overused as the term "competence." This article attempts to clarify the meaning of the term by describing four common conceptions of competence. (Author/CB)

The author updates information on teacher competency testing and discusses issues that should be considered by states planning the development and implementation of competency testing programs. Recommendations are made. (MT)

This analysis defends the proposition that fewer competencies should be used in the organizing structure for teacher education programs. An objectives-oriented teacher education approach is described and three minimal competencies for such a strategy isolated, along with alternative assessment tactics for each. (Author/JA)

Teacher education testing requirements for all of the states are displayed on a chart. Categories of information include: date of data revision, the name of the test, passing rates, and passing scores for both admission to teacher education programs and teacher certification. (JD)

Teacher education will probably continue to receive specific attention in the competency testing area. Professional educators need to apply the best knowledge and practice available if testing is to become a valuable and valid part of the teacher certification process. (CJB)

Negative implications should be assessed before extending preservice education programs. Although a longer, more demanding professional program would have a positive effect on the professional status of teaching, it may also discourage qualified applicants who are not interested in spending five or six years in preparation for a relatively low…

This article describes Virginia's Beginning Teacher Assistance Program (BTAP), implemented to test teacher competence, and to help teachers acquire missing competencies. The effect of BTAP and similar programs on the teaching profession is discussed. Included is an appendix which lists the BTAP competencies and indicators. (IAH)

Increasingly, competency tests are being developed and used by state departments of education for teacher certification. Professional educators should participate in the development and revision of the content of these examinations. A description of the development of Georgia's competency tests is given. (CJB)

Performance tests should be required for certification of all public and private school teachers. Tests that are validated against actual job performance--which evaluate actual knowledge, skills, and professional ethics that produce educational and social benefits--should be used. (CJB)

A survey of state directors of teacher certification was conducted in 1986 to obtain opinions on national standards for teacher certification, teacher testing, teacher career ladders, and other current issues. Findings are summarized. (MT)

The impact of "exit-gate" and the new "entrance-gate" tests on Black prospective teachers and historically Black colleges is described. Three strategies for dealing with teacher testing without compromising teacher competency are outlined. A broader vision of competence is needed to counterbalance the narrow view provided by…

A positive effect of the competency testing movement is that it will reveal the nation's greatest educational failure--understanding minority achievement and developing successful instructional delivery systems for minority youth. Collaborative leadership from teachers, professional educators, and the public must challenge the development of new…

In the past, the absence of performance standards for which teachers and teacher education institutions could be held accountable has helped protect teacher colleges from malpractice charges. As research identifies correlates between teacher behavior and student achievement, however, institutions which fail to teach minimum competencies may become…

Changes in schools and teacher education programs are interrelated and involve political, economic, social, and educational reforms. This article explores the current situation of the teaching profession and discusses the importance of incentives. (DF)