Questionnaires completed by Australian preservice teachers before and after practical experiences in isolated rural settings revealed the value of these experiences in developing positive attitudes toward teaching in rural schools and in sensitizing teachers to the culture and conditions associated with teaching in rural areas. (LP)

The author reflects on his first teaching experience 20 years ago at a residential outdoor and environmental education school in Ontario (Canada). He stresses the importance of documenting outdoor experiences through personal narratives as a means of bringing attention to the value of outdoor learning and connecting learners with their natural…

Discusses methods for teaching elementary art students the principle of a focal point in the design of art works. Suggests beginning with well-known paintings as examples of utilizing a focal point, and then encouraging students to create their own designs. Displays examples of student art employing a center of interest. (DB)

Presents a simulation used in a political science course on U.S. foreign policy in which college students role play National Security Council members and government officials during a hijacking incident. Analyzes four groups' responses to the exercise. Suggests the simulation involves students in crisis decision making, developing better…

Profiles Margery Jacoby, a typical teacher at the turn of the century in western frontier, who secured a teaching certificate by examination at 15, took summer college courses, and was elected county superintendent at 23. Discusses women's access to higher education and administrative positions in the frontier west, teaching conditions, and…

Discusses the development of content knowledge in movement-based curricula. Researchers examined knowledge structures in groups of preservice physical educators, comparing them with those of elementary physical educators expert in movement-based approaches. Results suggest declarative knowledge develops in complexity from novice to expert within…

Describes an experienced first grade teacher's efforts to create her place in what was defined by others as the change process. Researchers observed in her classroom and conducted interviews over one school year. She viewed herself not as changing, but rather as part of a slow, continuous process. (SM)

Discusses experiences of U.S. and British psychology professors who exchanged teaching duties. Reports perceptions of differences between departments. Examines views concerning students, approaches to teaching, and faculty issues. Concludes that upper level U.S. undergraduates could benefit from British teaching methods. Suggests the British…

Identifies questions related to the processes and consequences of alternative teacher certification (AC), answers questions with research-based facts, proposes key elements of a model AC program, and draws conclusions about the directions AC may take and its probable effects on educational reform and on the professionalization of teaching. (SM)

This paper describes a zero budget alternative to state-funded induction programs in Texas: the Beginning Teacher Academy (BTA). BTA culminates the third phase of a three-phase (initiation, implementation, induction) professional development model. (IAH)

The roles and relationships of clinical faculty (experienced teachers who work with students in teacher education) in university teacher-education programs are examined to see how they might contribute to improvement of teacher education and what obstacles may exist. Implications for education reform are discussed. (SLD)

Describes an instructor's experience teaching English composition at Turtle Mountain Community College during the summer of 1990. Explores the difficulties of bicultural education at Indian reservations and recognizes the real meaning of cultural exchanges between American culture and Indian culture. (IH)

Describes and suggests the use of a problem-solving model that improves communication between student teachers and supervisors through the student teaching practicum. The aim of the model is to promote experimentation with various teaching techniques and to stimulate thinking among student teachers about their teaching experiences. (PR)

Contrasts the author's experiences teaching mathematics in Russia and as an immigrant to the United States. The author is particularly critical of the emphasis on grades and formal records in American higher education. American education is often guilty of confusing good grades or a degree with competence. (SLD)

Describes the teaching experiences and philosophy of 1995 National Teacher of the Year Elaine Griffin. With her husband Ned, Griffin began her teaching career in the roadless village of Akhiok (Alaska) and now teaches in a three-room school in Chiniak, Kodiak Island. Classroom activities such as Socratic discussion are described that nurture…