The perspectives of preservice teachers in utilizing concept mapping as a learning strategy are examined. Preservice teachers were asked to construct concept maps, reflect on the process, and then to record their reactions in personal journals which became the primary data source. Reaction to preservice teachers concept maps and apparent learning…

Describes how selected case examples are used in a mathematics course for prospective elementary teachers to provide a framework for discussing how children construct meaning in mathematics. The article examines the advantages of presenting cases in videodisc format with access to additional information through associated computer databases. (SM)

Three cooperative learning methods--inquiry task design, two level content study groups, and test review teams--are described. Ways in which to incorporate these teaching techniques in a science methods course are included. The outcomes of using these methods on attendance and observed performance, product development, and performance on midterm…

Study described what and how preservice teachers learned during a field-based elementary physical education methods course. Interviews, observations, and written work indicated they felt the development of pedagogical content knowledge was salient in learning to teach. They linked inadequate pedagogical content knowledge to problems observing and…

Modeling the processes of effective teaching through cooperative learning, creating a community of learners, and other interactive teaching strategies are discussed. As teacher education students become involved in their own reading and writing, they take ownership of their own learning and begin to feel a part of a larger community of learners.…

Reforms advocated for elementary school mathematics call for knowledge few teachers possess--knowledge about content, inquiry, and the pedagogical use of mathematical knowledge. As part of a larger study, researchers at the National Center for Research on Teacher Education interviewed methods instructors at a sample of college based preservice…

Two methods of delivering direct instruction to preservice teachers were compared. Students (n=37) in a reading course learned the Directed Reading Activity (DRA) via lecture and discussion; 37 others learned with videotape and related practice. The latter group retained and used DRA knowledge better over a longer period. (Author/SM)

Presents a study to determine the effects of introducing methods students to the "learning cycle" technique on their ability to adapt science textbooks to the method and employ it in their teaching. Interviews of 24 randomly selected students out of 48 participants indicated that 75 percent used the approach while student teaching and…

This study was conducted to investigate how teacher educators might help preservice teachers enrolled in a science methods course understand the need for mutual respect rather than coercion between pupil and teacher in an elementary classroom. An evaluation instrument was developed that consisted of a pre and post open-ended response to a…

Examines music terminology acquisition of 71 undergraduate students in an elementary music-methods course. Observes effects of differential training by testing for apparent knowledge transfer in written concert reports. Finds students whose vocabulary lessons were reinforced by listening exercises used music terminology more frequently. (CH)