This paper addresses three questions: (1) What key citizenship characteristics are essential for today's highly diverse, complex classrooms? (2) What should be the content of a course that would teach these traits? and (3) What pedagogical strategies could be employed to enhance the delivery of that content and to measure for the desired results?…

This paper summarizes a 4-month-long preparation process to implement an innovative English-as-a-Second-Language workplace program (ESLWP) at a large university with a sizable non-English speaking workforce in the United States. There is also a proposed plan of action for implementing a program guided by constructivist views of teaching and…

This paper reports findings in a study of an e-mail discussion activity in an undergraduate methods course. Students were asked to contribute an e-mail message to the class discussion at least once every two weeks; they could write on any topic suggested by their field experiences or related class discussions and readings. Critical interpretative…

Describes an activity used in the science methods class at the University of Wisconsin to bring preservice elementary teachers into appropriate contact with children and to give them the opportunity to try out a variety of materials and activities from the newer elementary science curricula. (JR)

The views and actions of five preservice teachers who taught reading in a special practicum (with no cooperating teachers) were studied to determine how that experience affected the views they espoused after taking a methods course in reading. The student teachers' views did change; researchers suggest that reading methods courses be integrated…

A survey of social studies professors in Australian colleges and universities showed that curriculum materials analysis is not a major emphasis in elementary methods courses. (RM)

In this study, the experimental group of teacher trainees experienced a multiethnic/multicultural approach in their social studies methods course. The post-test showed significant differences between the experimental and the contrast groups in their attitudes toward all racial and ethnic groups, except Blacks. Implications for teacher education…

This article describes a University of Pittsburgh course for preservice teachers entitled, "Using the Museum as a Resource." The goal of this interdisciplinary offering is to emphasize the use of museum resources as a base for curriculum development. (Author/SJL)

Reports on the views on problem-solving developed by prospective elementary teachers as a result of experiencing problem-centered learning in an integrated math-science methods course. Discusses four assertions related to students' attitudes toward problem-solving, their knowledge of problem-solving and problem-solving processes, and the role of…

Describes teacher education courses that can serve as models for integrating technology into preservice education. Stresses the importance of learning about technology with technology, an approach that has been integrated into preservice social studies methods classes at the University of New Mexico. Discusses computer discourse and classroom…