It is a fact that each individual is unique. This uniqueness can be physical, emotional, intellectual and/or spiritual. It follows then that in any given learning environment each learner has unique abilities and needs. Consequently, classrooms everywhere, even if they are streamed, are of a mixed-ability nature. Having recognised this factor in…

This paper presents findings from a two-­year pilot project into the use of ePortfolios as a tool for assessment in a two year, field-­oriented, inquiry-­based teacher preparation program. Participants consisted of five cohorts of pre­service student teachers and five instructors; interviews, focus groups, artifacts, and project meetings provided…

Examines reflexive relationships among a dialogic community of preservice teachers, existing classroom norms during field experience, cooperating teachers' methods of instruction, and preservice teachers' beliefs and classroom practices. Suggests that existing norms and the cooperating teachers' methods of instructions have a profound impact on…

Describes the use of narrative to encourage African American teacher education students to reflect on their personal, cultural, and familial experiences, examine their own beliefs about teaching and learning, and reflect on relationships between theory and practice in education. Includes some excerpts from the students' journals that reflect how…

Recounts a student teacher's first experiences in the classroom and provides helpful commentary and suggestions from a more experienced teacher. Briefly discusses classroom management, learning styles, individual needs, time constraints, assessment, and instructional materials. Includes a list of activities that help promote an atmosphere of…

Analyzes data from a questionnaire addressing preservice elementary teachers' negative attitudes toward social studies. Identifies and discusses six categories of concern: negative past experiences; lack of personal interest; confusion over the nature of social studies; conflicting beliefs; topic selection; and traditional teaching styles. (MJP)

This curriculum plan for educators is a three-credit undergraduate course that focuses on recognizing and eliminating gender bias in teacher attitudes and behavior. The purpose of the curriculum plan is to integrate gender equity awareness, skills, and competencies into teacher preparation programs. As a result, preservice educators will have an…