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…

Discussion of national standards addressing technology in teacher preparation programs focuses on a team teaching approach that required methods course students to produce electronic portfolios. Highlights include student perceptions of the value of electronic portfolios; benefits of technology use; technology as motivation for students; plans for…

Describes a project designed to enhance the technological ability of university students enrolled in an early literacy course. Models the use of technology as a tool for literacy instruction in hopes that these teachers and future teachers would become more familiar with technology and use it when teaching their early childhood students to read.…

Describes the development of a Technology Teaching Lab that was designed to provide elementary education preservice teachers with instruction to create technology-enhanced lessons and to use the lessons in their field placement. Discusses planning the lab, integrating the lab component into methods courses, and evaluation. (LRW)

This study investigated the ways in which preservice teachers' (N=30) images of lessons changed as they received instruction and practice using particular models of teaching. Findings highlight how knowledge and experience contributed differentially to the shifts over time in the preservice teachers' observation of a lesson. (IAH)

Key features of an intensive one-semester clinical program for preservice teachers are: (1) concurrent methods courses and fieldwork (student teaching); (2) dual roles (instructor and fieldwork supervisor) for core faculty; (3) teaming of core faculty; (4) peer group support--because students are placed in clusters of 3-10 at a school. (IAH)

This article describes a course-specific model for organizing field experience in the teacher education program at Morehead State University. Students in an elementary social studies methods course had class and field experience within the same public school. Guidelines for effective collaboration between the university and the school are…

Analyzes demographic data about secondary science methods faculty regarding the faculty member's professional preparation, content of the methods course, secondary teaching experience, and information about the individual. Some implications for teacher education are included. (YP)

Asserts that social studies or history methods textbooks do not enjoy the same popularity among teachers they once did. Reviews five texts used prior to 1910 and maintains that each contributed to the traditional history curriculum. (CFR)

Reports on one rigorous evaluation and search for desired components of a science methods course at a large state university. Student evaluations of assignments are used to rate them for effectiveness. Provides a model for other instructors interested in course evaluation. (LZ)

Explores negotiation as a method for overcoming dilemmas discovered in an elementary science methods course designed to promote student independence and reflective thinking regarding science teaching and learning. Focuses on the decision making that emerged from the tension between traditional views and the views considered empowering. (LZ)