This study investigates the value of early field experience students' observations of both peers and cooperating teachers in elementary classrooms where they had daily instructional duties. The participants in this study were 34 elementary education students enrolled in their last semester of coursework before the final student teaching…

"Hard Science" is designed to teach 1st grade gifted students accurate and high level science concepts. It is based upon their experience of the world and attempts to build a foundation for continued love and enjoyment of science. "Hard Science" provides field experiences and opportunities for hands-on discovery working beside experts in the field…

This study explored the influence of university-based teacher education courses on preservice teachers as they engaged in the field-based portion of their preparation. Forty-two preservice teachers contributed reflective writings about the successes and challenges they faced during field experiences in light of knowledge and skills learned during…

This study examined the knowledge, beliefs and efforts of five prospective teachers to enact teaching science as inquiry, over the course of a one-year high school fieldwork experience. Data sources included interviews, field notes, and artifacts, as these prospective teachers engaged in learning how to teach science. Research questions included…

To address the teacher shortage, some states have developed special associate's degrees in teacher education. This article explores the prevalence and structure of these specialized associate's degrees and presents a case for their development to smooth the transfer pathway for community college students who wish to become teachers. (Contains 3…

In this experimental study, prospective elementary school teachers enrolled in a mathematics course were randomly assigned to (a) concurrently learn about children's mathematical thinking by watching children on video or working directly with children, (b) concurrently visit elementary school classrooms of conveniently located or specially…

The percentage of urban teachers who leave the profession within the first 5 years is more than 50%; inadequate preparation is often cited as a cause of urban teacher attrition. This article explores a qualitative study regarding teachers' perceptions of their experience of and preparation for teaching in urban schools. Data from teachers in urban…

Although in the long run, neoliberalism has a track record of undermining equity and democracy, in the short run it has directed attention to education needs that have been inadequately addressed. This article sketches what teacher education in the US can do to advance equity and democracy in five areas: recruitment and admission, early fieldwork,…

This paper describes the University of Utah's recently revised Ed.D. program and reports the results of several program-evaluation efforts conducted since its implementation. In particular, the most recent evaluation assessed the effectiveness of the field-based doctoral program in educational administration in linking theory and research to the…

Articulates the philosophy, conceptual framework, and operationalization of models of fieldwork education at Adelphi University School of Social Work where some students obtain practicum experience in single agencies but many have a diversified practicum corresponding to learning opportunities in generic social work, multimethod approach, and…

A sample of 248 students taking undergraduate accredited field experience courses at Michigan State University felt that their major vocational, personal, and general educational objectives were met by their curriculum. Students expressed no significant weaknesses that could be attributed to field experience education as a whole. (Author)

Using community resources, Bridgeport, Connecticut develops and implements an environmental education program. Workshops focused on the concepts of ecology, biology, botany, and geology. Trained volunteers, scheduled into schools, offer in class presentations and conduct environmental explorations. In service workshops are provided for teachers to…

Peace Corps Volunteers numbering 7,300 are currently working in 68 developing nations. Their qualifications, training, pay, benefits, and field experiences are described. Areas of work are outlined, with volunteers from the skilled trades and agriculture in demand, and regional recruitment offices are listed. (LH)

The National Service Scheme provides work experience based on social services as an integral part of education. The results of such a national service project in India to build a school is described by a former student. (Author/PG)