The article describes a practical social studies methods course cooperatively planned and implemented by a state college and a high school. The methods classes met in the high school twice a week for two semesters and spent additional time observing teaching and participation in discussions with teachers. (Author/RM)

This paper argues that the appropriate emphasis of reform should be on research of variations in teacher education rather than the uncritical adoption of a specific model. An overview of research addresses the question of how the amounts of coursework in teacher preparation and in subject matter preparation are related to teacher effectiveness.…

By using writing-to-learn strategies in their classes, teacher educators can introduce future teachers to the concept of writing as a teaching strategy while improving their understanding of course content. Examples demonstrate the many benefits of the method. (MT)

One technique particularly worthy of possible inclusion in the secondary social studies methods class is an assignment in which students interview practicing social studies teachers. In addition to obtaining more insight into actual teaching practice, methods students learn about interviewing as a social studies teaching method. A course is…

Thirty-seven social studies methods texts were examined to see how concept instruction was covered. Seven provided no guidance for instruction in social science concepts, and most did not provide sufficient information and guidelines, despite the considerable body of knowledge that stresses the importance of this area. (IS)

One part of the Merrill and Tennyson model for concept teaching consists of expository presentations of the concept arranged from easy to difficult. This study showed that the presentation order, i.e., the order of difficulty, does not significantly affect student achievement. (Author/RM)

Longitudinal research is needed to investigate the effect of science teacher education programs. The impact of the program may not be evident until two or three years after the experience. This type of research can also assist in planning interventions and professional growth opportunities. Universities often do not take responsibility for…

A study examined items selected by preservice teachers for inclusion in an assigned portfolio. Twenty-nine third-year and twenty-eight fourth-year preservice elementary school teachers in a science methods course were asked to complete portfolios that reflected course competencies. Seven items, on average, were selected by each cohort, with 76% of…

To get a preliminary understanding of how mathematics methods courses are taught, this study examined course syllabi from as wide a range of public and private universities as possible. Mathematics methods course syllabi from 200 randomly selected members of the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE) were requested. Following the…

The goal of this dissertation is to clarify the perceptions and concerns that methods faculty at a university located in the Midwest have about integrating instructional technology into their courses along with their current use of technology. Ultimately, this study aims to generate strategies to support methods instructors in their efforts to…

Reports on the Cooperative Teacher Education Program (CTEP) conducted by the University of Illinois College of Education in cooperation with suburban school districts 214, 25, and 59 near Chicago. (RB)

The purpose of the article is to underscore strong points for the junior college instructor to use in coming to terms with local or regional four-year schools. (Author)

The author argues the affirmative but warns that the teacher must act at all times as an objective professional, and not indoctrinate students with his own political or philosophic beliefs. (MM)

Describes a course designed to provide the student with the necessary motor skills and attitudes to treat the actely ill. (HS)