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)

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)

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…

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…

Teacher preparation programs should be designed around generic competencies based on what beginning teachers should know and be able to do and at what levels of proficiency. Two types of teacher competence are considered: (1) the functions and tasks of teaching; and (2) the behavior and actions of the teacher. (JN)

Minimum state standards for secondary school teacher certification are compared with standards set by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) and by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). General and professional education requirements are reported. Inconsistences…

Examines ethical dilemmas encountered during an ethnographic study of how the concept of competence at a Scottish teacher-education institution included the need to prepare future teachers as critical professionals able to handle diversity. The paper discusses negotiations in the fieldwork, constraints imposed upon it, and potential for developing…