Analyzes current teacher education practices, and groups them under the labels of "preparation approach,""imitation approach," and "clinical approach." Describes a "reflective approach" of teacher preparation as being consistent with John Dewey's views toward education and presents quotations taken directly…

Clinical feedback is a planned process of exploring collected data through nonjudgemental observation. Two programs are described which reflect faculty judgement that student teachers need training in systematic observation and analysis of the stimulus-response characteristics of teaching and learning. (JN)

Science activities with soap bubbles for primary school children are described in this article. Another activity involves children in determining the whereabouts of sugar as it dissolves in water. (SA)

Reports a study to investigate the extent to which research experience of designing and conducting their own study could enhance five preservice teachers' understanding of children's knowledge of the mathematical concept of fractions. Results indicated that research experience is fruitful in developing an inquisitive disposition in preservice…

In a social psychology class based on experiential learning, students carry out research and interpret a setting by observing social interaction. Settings include correctional facilities, self-help groups, and abuse shelters. Describes students responsibilities, reactions, data collection, analysis, and project findings. Finds students learn…

Examines teachers' roles as mediators of knowledge and cognitive learning in the classroom. Cites research findings concerning teacher effectiveness, expertise, and curriculum knowledge. Urges user-friendly, explicit methods of classroom teaching as opposed to child-centered learning without mediation by the teacher. Suggests that teacher…

This ethnographic study examined one inclusive early-childhood setting over four weeks. Observations indicated that children with special needs regularly imitated behaviors, words, and skills of typically developing peers, more advanced peers with special needs, and teachers. Individualized interventions were regularly conducted within general…

Describes how pre-service teachers at one elementary school participate in Grand Rounds (borrowed from the medical profession). Participants observe master teachers demonstrating model lessons and interacting with students. During a debriefing session, student teachers ask questions and discuss their observations with master teachers. Later, they…

The "Set a Good Example Contest" has been in operation for 10 years. The contest is based on the idea that educating youth in common sense values and getting students to set good examples for their peers will solve many of the problems faced in today's society. This paper examines the effects of this program. Both teachers and students…

Teaching skills can be acquired or modified through various processes, including observation, concept acquisition, practice, and feedback. However, evidence does not indicate that combining these processes into a single training methodology provides any advantage for teacher trainees. Teaching also may be influenced by providing information about…

The Intermediate Science Curriculum Study Spanish language science instruction manual for the intermediate grades focuses on energy of many types. The soft bound volume uses self-pacing and individualized learning to guide the students through a series of experiments. Basically, the students are asked to think about what they do and see, evaluate…

The research compares two open education programs in New York City (one in a private school, one a public school) from 1970 to 1976. Both programs stressed decentralization of the classroom into interest areas, individually created learning materials, and participation by children in decisions regarding use of time and space. The purpose of the…

This guide for teachers of 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds focuses on the observation and direction of learning through play. Each chapter covers a specific curriculum area: Block Building, The Graphic Arts, Woodworking, Manipulative Materials, Modeling Materials, Paste and Collage, Sand, Water, Food, Housekeeping, Music and Movement, Physical Activities,…

This entry program is based on the following general purposes: (a) to help students formulate their professional decisions regarding grade level and/or subject area and to make tentative long-range plans on the basis of that decision; (b) to help students develop observational skills which enable them to analyze and evaluate teaching-learning…

Describes an activity in which students observe pairs of students engaged in conversation. Observations of "body language" are made, shifts in stance, and duration of stance. Discusses the application of this type of study to other species. (TW)