Few studies have addressed the effects of teacher education generally, no less the specific program elements necessary to prepare competent and caring teachers. As a result, to address teacher shortages in science, mathematics, and special education, alternatives to traditional preparation have been proposed, and their development has proceeded…

A series of model five-year teacher education programs are described. Two main types of programs are included--state-initiated programs and university-based fifth-year programs. An analysis and description of of the following programs is presented: (1) Florida Performance Program Management System--Beginning Teacher Program; (2) Kentucky…

This paper focuses on different ways of conceiving and carrying out teacher preparation. It examines some ideas about how teachers should be prepared and offers some frameworks for looking at distinctive approaches and alternatives. It also discusses the state of the art concerning programs of initial teacher preparation and indicates where…