In a recent report, EdSource examines how Californians' concern for teacher quality has created new tensions. The desire for stronger accountability and better teacher evaluation standards can compete (when allocating time, attention, and money) with the need for higher quality professional development. Accountability and teacher skills are…

This article discusses the child sexual abuse literature which was available in the 1980s, as well as several new sources of information, and describes a curriculum which was developed to provide a model for immediate evaluation of sexual behaviors observed among children in schools and child care settings. (CR)

Discusses a summer institute that examined the shifting shape of American Literature, and teaching American Literature. Includes ways in which students help "make" literature with their own writing. Discusses the contributions of new technologies, pairing unlikely combinations of texts, and including middle school teachers who teach…

Case studies designed by the National Institute for Science Education reveal various dilemmas and decision points faced by professional developers. Planners must decide whether to focus on philosophical or pragmatic issues; aim at a broad or narrow audience; and engage teachers in developing curriculum or in adopting existing curricula. (MLH)

When Thornton (Colorado) High School organized for site-based management, the structuring committee understood the importance of providing a professional-development fund for staff members. The school decided to restructure with one central umbrella committee for site-based governance and several subcommittees reporting to the main committee. (MLH)

The literature on evaluation in English language teaching has little to say about development of appropriate teacher evaluation systems for major institutional language programs. This article provides a set of ideas and suggestions that can enable a program team to create evaluation procedures that relate to the needs of…

Describes different Internet resource sites for instructional design and human performance technology maintained by various groups including: professional organizations, United States government agencies, educational institutions, publishers and booksellers, and miscellaneous groups. (AEF)

Argues that teachers' perspectives prompt a particular interpretation of Donald Schon's "reflection-in-action" theory that justifies individualistic, immediate, and limited change strategies in professional development. Maintains that reflective teaching requires an approach that is social and collaborative rather than only individualistic in…

Provides a coherent framework to help states examine their personnel development systems and provides steps for the development and implementation of an integrated service delivery and personnel development system for early intervention. A model consisting of 12 key elements for planning and implementing a comprehensive system is presented. (CR)

The Master of Public Administration program at West Virginia University has adopted a portfolio approach to connect program experience more effectively to professional preparation and career development. Although the portfolio is intended to enhance the learning experience, it also assists in assessment of curriculum and program needs. Form,…

Reviews World Wide Web sites, specifically those related to the professional growth of developmental educators and students. Cites two Web pages in particular--the College Reading and Learning Association and Webliography--that offer many valuable resources. Contains 53 Web site addresses. (AS)

Asserts that California's 1999 Public Schools Accountability Act does not do enough to address the underachievement of students in high-poverty schools. Recommends four initiatives to improve the academic performance of students in these schools: provide better teachers, boost instructional time, increase teacher professional development time, and…

Reports a critical friendship between two colleagues--an English for academic purposes teacher and the author--that resulted in the mutual development of both. Suggests that teachers wishing to carry out similar methods of reflection may want to develop ground rules before the friendship begins, such as defining the roles of the participants,…

Discussion of online learning and institutional training focuses on professional development that is offered by three types of providers: degree-granting institutions; online education entrepreneurs; and public/nonprofit organizations. Presents advice on key issues to consider when choosing a provider and discusses effective time management. (LRW)

Describes the evolution of a young professional-development school, detailing challenges and successes the school has experienced thus far. The idea was to offer teachers a context for bridging theory and practice and provide additional resources and opportunities for ongoing collaboration and dialog. Trust and respect were essential ingredients.…