This article describes changes being introduced in Norwegian colleges of education regarding the training of English teachers. Traditional divisions (phonetics, language, culture, literature, etc.) are being replaced by a theme-based approach, in which students are obliged to use English and are more actively engaged in the learning process. (IAH)

The findings of a 10-year follow-up study into the preservice preparation of Australian primary teachers to teach reading are presented. Data are provided on the number of hours allocated to studies which are directly concerned with the teaching of reading. (Author/MLW)

Content and methods are outlined for an undergraduate elementary social studies methods course. Course topics include structure of the discipline and its place in the curriculum, selecting concepts and facts to teach, how children reason and the implications for social studies teaching methods, instructional planning and techniques, and…

Assessed is the effectiveness of a science methods program for inservice elementary teachers at a small rural college in terms of participants' concerns and attitudes toward science. (YP)

Complaints have been made that in teacher preparation programs foundations courses are practically irrelevant and methods courses intellectually unchallenging. Prospective teachers should understand that an extensive grounding in the psychological, historical and sociological foundations of education prepares them to make effective decisions on…

Proposes a new approach to reading education that encourages active student participation. Offers three advantages and three potential criticisms of the case method approach, as well as advice on using this approach in undergraduate and graduate courses. (MG)

This article describes the peer and self assessment procedure implemented in the secondary methods classes at Central Michigan University. Students use a data-based assessment instrument to assess videotaped micro-peer-teaching presentations made by themselves and other students. (IAH)

Evaluates the process and the use of self-assessment portfolios as an assessment instrument in one undergraduate literacy methods class. Discusses four major categories of results: strengths of the process, strengths of self-assessment portfolios as a form of evaluation, concerns/difficulties with the process, and concerns/difficulties with…

Presents profiles of two instructors of elementary art methods courses for preservice elementary teachers, offering two possible scenarios in which they might find themselves. One scenario presents contradictory realities and contexts, while the other scenario discusses celebration of the artistry within teaching. (SM)

Investigates differences in perceived inservice needs of veteran and nonveteran biology teachers as recommended by the National Research Council. Veteran and nonveteran teachers chose differing subjects for which mastery courses should be taught. Nonveteran teachers perceived a greater need for science teaching-methods courses. (LZ)

Presents to science teacher educators information from the second language acquisition literature that is useful in understanding the linguistic needs of second language learners in today's classrooms. Examples of how this material can be incorporated into science methods courses is included. (LZ)

Describes interpretations of one preservice elementary physical education teacher, who preferred received knowledge (i.e., coming to know by listening to others) to experiences in reflection (lesson and unit instruction, dialogue journals, and class discussions) that occurred during a methods course. Only slight changes in reflective abilities…

The elementary teacher education programs at Ball State University, University of Toledo, University of Georgia, Eastern Michigan University, Utah State University, Austin Peay State University, and University of Southern Mississippi are described. Each includes special science courses for teachers, appropriate methods courses, and opportunities…

Presents a first-hand account of an experience in team teaching a methods course in physical education teacher education, focusing on the conceptualization and implementation of reflective teaching in physical education. The paper offers data from preservice teachers' journals and observations and recollections of in-class discussions. (SM)

Describes the creation of a high school general music class by a university methods professor, a graduate assistant, and a high school choral director. Explains that the class used university methods class students to serve as guest lecturers and performers in the high school course. Discusses evaluation, benefits, and suggestions for creative…