This accessible and timely book builds upon and contributes to ongoing debates surrounding professionalism in the early years workforce. In a sector where policy is rapidly changing, Jayne Osgood challenges existing assumptions concerning professional identities and questions what broader lessons might be learnt about race, ethnicity, social class…

This study examines variability in the extent to which faculty members in the disciplinary-based academic environments of Holland's theory emphasize different student learning outcomes in their classes and whether such differences are comparable for those in "consistent" versus "inconsistent" environments. The findings show wide variation in the…

Identifies problems judged by teachers to be crucial to their professionalism (e.g., lack of participation in the determination of their tasks, inadequate teaching in theory, lack of collaborative activities, inapplicability of positivistic research to teaching-learning situations, and political pressures). Recommends developing mutual respect and…

This article describes a research model that can help curriculum developers document both curriculum practices in the schools and perceptions of those practices by scholars, state department of education staff, teachers, and others. The model was developed to guide the collection of research data for John Goodlad's "Study of Schooling." (PP)

A teacher's theoretical viewpoint is pervasive. It determines not only the materials chosen and the way the materials are used, but also the perception the teacher holds of the reading process. It is important, therefore, for teachers to understand the theory on which their views are based so that they can understand why they have chosen a…

Presents results of a study of skilled history teachers. Considers beliefs and practices of teachers as compared to what the English National Curriculum defines as good practice. Concludes that many teachers fail to follow the national definition of good practice not because of ignorance but because they have different ideas. (DK)

Reports on a study of 2,553 students' attitudes toward aggression in schools. Finds differentiated results based on demographic data and with the students' personal involvement in the aggressive acts as either the perpetrator or victim. Discusses practical consequences of the study for schools. (CFR)

Many theories have been proposed to help instructional designers make instructional-strategy decisions, yet it is not clear if these theories are actually used by ID practitioners. This study used a web-survey to examine the design strategies of 113 ID practitioners. The survey asked respondents to rate how frequently they used learning or ID…

Focusing on the role of language in learning, this paper discusses schemata and symbolic thinking that help students learn from unfamiliar experiences. The first part of the paper introduces the idea of symbolic thinking by comparing students encountering new ideas with convention-goers making their way around a new city. The section suggests that…

Describes a concerns-based approach to professional development programs designed to implement current reforms in mathematics education. Identifies seven Stages of Concern and includes a table of typical statements, expressions of concern, and intervention strategies a change facilitator can follow with teachers at each stage. (MDH)

Utilizes the experiences of seven elementary teachers to examine issues and attitudes concerning whole language learning. Although the seven teachers often feel alienated within their own profession, they remain adamant in their commitment. Discusses their conversion to whole language learning and the influence of the New Zealand school. (MJP)

Argues for a redefinition of the goal of education as "aptitude development" in which students learn to think, reason, and solve problems. Reviews theories on the nature of intelligence, creativity, and motivation. Emphasizes the role of teachers and school principals in creating a new learning climate. (PAA)

Reviews research on teaching and teachers' thinking and practical knowledge. Formulates questions regarding discourse practices, production, and research. Centers on themes of story, voice, and form. Looks at how experienced and novice teachers create meaning. Asks whether the teachers' voice is given expression in research on teacher thinking.…

This volume provides an examination of the theoretical basis for preschool through elementary school multiage grouping, a realistic picture of what it looks like, some guidelines for planning and implementing a multiage model, and recommendations from practicing multiage teachers. Chapter 1 defines multiage grouping and provides a brief history of…

Epistemology traditionally has been defined as the division of philosophy that investigates the nature and origin of knowledge. More specifically, epistemology usually is said to be concerned with either the development of common bodies of knowledge or the establishment of personal knowledge. In recent years, epistemology also has come to be used…