Defines inservice, provides criteria for planning and conducting successful inservice programs, discusses its critical elements, and examines the roles of the administrator and the teacher in successful programs. (FL)

Traces the development of the performance appraisal program of the Hicksville, New York, public school system, which was designed to improve instructional programs. Describes the strong opposition the program received from teachers. (FL)

Reports on the impact of being in a Professional Development Schools network on seven Utah schools (four elementary, one junior, and two high schools) over five years. Identifies and analyzes the catalysts that promoted teachers' professional development and school reform, as well as the road blocks to effective reform. (SR)

Reports findings of a survey of elementary and secondary school teachers concerning the effectiveness of faculty meetings. Concludes that there is a need for more faculty involvement in planning and conducting the meetings. (FL)

Discusses two separate attempts (a summer institute plus follow-up sessions, and a semester course) to help practicing teachers learn how to ask questions that promote student thinking. Finds that it takes time, practice, reflection, and support for teachers to learn how to ask good questions that facilitate learning--and that it is worth all of…

Argues that teachers and principals can improve the quality of their schools by working cooperatively in the selection of new staff. (FL)

Describes how 14 elementary teachers, two administrators, and one facilitator (a university faculty member) formed and carried out a year-long study group. Discusses benefits, noting that teachers can take control of their learning by actively participating in problem-centered discussions and activities. Offers several planning guidelines for…

Describes Multiple-User Dungeons (MUDs), multiple-user computer programs that allow participants to interact with others in "real time" exchanges. Discusses their potential in the writing classroom and beyond, and notes their potential for faculty development activities. Offers a list of Internet resources, some actual MUD addresses, and other…

Describes how 35 teachers worked to create the Learning Collaborative, a technologically based resource for advanced placement teachers around the world, including a website to offer variety of resources. (SR)

Explores key components of the teacher professional growth process and examines how "significant others" can contribute to the components discussed. Presents a structure for a collaborative approach to supervision and staff development. (FL)

Describes an "excellent and inspiring educators' conference" attended by the author: a three-day summer baseball camp for youngsters (attended by his 12-year-old daughter) sponsored by the local minor league professional team, a marvel of collaborative learning, team teaching, and respect, friendly encouragement, and high expectations for all. (SR)

Describes New Zealand's program for beginning teacher induction, in which new primary teachers (K-8) receive weekly release time for the purpose of staff development. Argues that using this model would help combat the impending teacher shortage in the United States. (SR)

simple wedge with its tip made of durable, clear, and appropriate teaching standards forged in the furnace of science and theory widens to bring the materials and processes of art and practice to bear on the work of strengthening and renewing all of teaching by applying the national board's standards and assessment processes. With this model,…

Describes the Teacher Externship in Business and Industry summer program that provided teachers with first-hand experience of what today's work world is all about. Notes that teachers indicated the program would help them to prepare their students for the world of work. (SR)

Offers an overview of current challenges of preparing foreign language teachers in United States schools. Discusses the growing demand for foreign language classes in elementary and middle schools; longer internships for preservice teachers; ongoing professional development; more bilingual and immersion programs; and the trend toward…