Three attempts to improve the state approval process in accreditation are described, and their implications for improving the process are discussed. (JD)

Problems concerning the accreditation of teacher education programs include: (1) the differences in requirements at various institutions; (2) evaluating program substance instead of form; (3) determining actual qualifications of graduates; (4) the purpose of accreditation; and (5) the effectiveness of the evaluation. Various solutions are…

Results of a survey of teacher education institutions which participated in a series of pilot accreditation visits by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) provided information on changes that occurred as a result of NCATE's redesigned assessment process and the influence the process had on the institution. (IAH)

To discuss teacher certification and its relationship to competency testing and teacher preparation, it is important to understand what it is and what its purpose is. This article focuses on the impact of competency testing on the teacher education curriculum and the relationship of tests to certification and program approval processes. (MT)

Seven major areas of reform that are bringing significant changes in teaching and teacher education are documented and discussed: (1) improving the academic quality of students entering teacher education programs; (2) upgrading the standards for the accreditation of teacher education institutions; (3) raising teacher certification standards; (4)…

As States move toward performance-based teacher education and certification, a determination of the function of the State must be made. Within the approved program approach, and along a continuum from decentralized control and decision making to centralized control, five models of certification can be identified: process, information,…

State program approval could significantly influence the redesign of teacher education programs because of its legal authority. This paper reviews the functions of state program approval, and compares these processes with those of national voluntary accreditation organizations, such as the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.…

This booklet discusses changes taking place in the four major processes involved in preparing and certifying teachers: national accreditation, state program approval, state certification, and teacher preparation. Some of the major issues affecting these processes, such as teacher competency testing and teaching internships, are discussed, and the…

A response to articles by Alan Tom and Richard Wisniewski (November-December 1981 Journal of Teacher Education) is offered. Alternatives to the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) standards are considered. It is suggested that higher selection standards for teachers be coupled with financial incentives. (PP)