Purpose: This paper aims to examine how a collaborative narrative inquiry focused on cultivating critical English Language Arts (ELA) pedagogies supported teacher agency, or "the capacity of actors to critically shape their own responsiveness to problematic situations" (Emirbayer and Mische, 1998, p. 971). Design/methodology/approach:…

Draws on the Teachers Learning Collaborative (a network of three teacher study groups across southeastern Michigan) to illustrate the potential of teacher research for informing the field, as well as to demonstrate a particular model within which such research can be accomplished. (SG)

Second of a seven-part series recounting disatisfaction with traditional means of teaching literature to the disadvantaged. Also identifies three approaches which aim at reform. (RB)

A follow-up study determined the adequacy of preparation provided by Washburn University's (Kansas) graduate programs as perceived by graduates of the programs. A total of 34 graduates from the summer of 1984 through the summer of 1985 answered questionnaires on their opinions about graduate programs in Administration, Curriculum and Instruction,…

Current performance objectives of a field-based reading education program and factors which influence their selection and revision are presented in this paper. The role of teacher educators in the determination of performance objectives for field-based course work is discussed. It is suggested that the teacher-educator must draw on experiences and…

Presents various suggestions for the use of newspapers in classrooms at all educational levels, from preschool to adult literacy programs. (NKA)

Contends that online learning has the potential to bring together international communities for the development and enhancement of literacy education. Describes the author's experience of online teaching. Discusses the necessity of online learning, the challenges of creating an online class, and how to prepare material for the Web. (PM)

Considers the direction of literature curricula and asks why the study of literature and language is an essential part of culture. Explains the curriculum's educational value and intellectual purposes to those who allocate resources. Raises fundamental questions about the political and spiritual aspects of teaching literature. (SC)

Because the core curriculum for reading education evolved in an unsystematic manner, it has no "official sanction" and is thus very difficult to challenge or to supplement. The traditional "publish and wait" means of challenging existing conventions or submitting alternative propositions has changed without notice, largely due to increased…

Directions for change and growth for the college English teaching profession are suggested. Elimination of elitism and concentration on the teaching of reading and writing skills are stressed. (RM)

Describes how a college developmental reading program was changed from three to five semester hours of credit. Addresses changes in staffing, number of course offerings, scheduling, support services, curriculum, teaching methods, and motivational needs.(MG)

Unlike trends in reading and writing instruction which are shortlived, such as speed reading, performance contracting, and the i.t.a. (initial teaching alphabet), certain influences exist which contribute to lasting improvements in reading and writing. Several factors can help to distinguish trends from the more permanent influences on education.…

Describes the process by which an individualized instruction reading test program was developed. (CRH)

Suggests general changes in the standard reading and writing curricula and examines the language of writing instruction, in college level individual writing conferences, to take a closer look at issues involved in implementing the curricula for higher and lower achieving students. (FL)

Information on current trends and issues informally discussed and then delineated by the directors of six National Council of Teachers of English commissions, is presented in this 11th annual report. The commissions and their directors are: (1) Commission on Curriculum (Dorothy King); (2) Commission on Language (Vivian I. Davis); (3) Commission on…