In 1993, at Wright State University (WSU), the College of Science and Mathematics (COSM), and the College of Education and Human Services (CEHS) began hiring faculty with joint appointments in both COSM and CEHS. That began the process of reforming the undergraduate education of preservice elementary teachers. Then, when the state called for a…

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of asynchronous discussion forums (ADFs) as a medium to facilitate reflective thinking among preservice teachers. Of particular interest was the extent and manner in which this potential varies with respect to (a) the structure of the ADF, (b) the focus of the ADF, and (c) group dynamics.…

This article emphasizes the importance of K-12 education in a technically literal society. Cites several major studies in a discussion of the reasons for the apparent unpreparedness of K-12 teachers to teach mathematics and science. Makes recommendations as to how engineering colleges can help to improve K-12 teachers' technical abilities. (CW)

Contains the fourteenth installment in the series of annual Summaries of Research in Science Education. The review is organized around specific disciplines at specific grade levels. Topics without specific disciplines or age levels and those that cut across these categories have been given separate headings. (ML)

A questionnaire administered at Edinburgh's Moray House College of Education examined attitudes toward education/schools/teachers, indicated student social and community workers found school less expressively/instrumentally rewarding than did student primary teachers. Concludes that some problems of interprofessional communication between teachers…

Analyzes data from a questionnaire addressing preservice elementary teachers' negative attitudes toward social studies. Identifies and discusses six categories of concern: negative past experiences; lack of personal interest; confusion over the nature of social studies; conflicting beliefs; topic selection; and traditional teaching styles. (MJP)

The principles and practices of multicultural education became the heart of one middle school teacher education program. The five principles included fostering inter/intragroup harmony through learning communities, targeting social justice and affirmation of diversity, empowering students and teachers, seeing things from multiple perspectives, and…

Compares and contrasts two vastly different approaches to music education instruction among undergraduate elementary and music teacher education students. Identifies these approaches as "making musicians" versus "being a role model." Examines these differences manifested in the identity, function, and role of the teachers.…

Describes Project INSITE (Institute for Science and Technology), a partnership of Indiana school districts, scientists, Purdue University, and other organizations that collaborate to improve K-12 science education using emerging technologies. INSITE includes a summer institute, internships/mentorships, master science teacher in residence, and…

Addresses the need for culturally relevant education on the Navajo Nation and explains why educational standards proposed in 1984 by the Navajo Tribal Council have failed to preserve Navajo language and culture. Outlines models based on the Dine Philosophy of Education and describes related educational practices for both preservice teacher…

Reveals a preponderance of stereotypical beliefs about the African continent among preservice social studies teachers. Many social studies teachers possess little, and often inaccurate information concerning Africa. Includes guidelines for correcting these misconceptions and teaching about Africa from a global perspective. (MJP)

Argues for the importance of teachers developing knowledge and skills related to curriculum development, action research, staff development, and collaboration to find unique solutions to the specific needs of language minority students. The paper examines how to incorporate such training into preservice teacher education for teachers of language…

Reports on a small-scale study that examined deficiencies in pre-service geography teachers' subject knowledge. The British pre-service teachers were all studying for Post Graduate Certificates in Education and answered questions regarding their subject knowledge and educational background. Documents definite weaknesses and identifies areas for…

Describes the development of computer-assisted instructional software designed to supply future teachers with a repertoire of songs and related music concepts for classroom use. Tests the efficacy of the software at two preservice teacher education programs. Students in both programs thought the software served their needs. (MJP)

This article describes the Reaching American Indian Special/Elementary Educators (RAISE) program, a community-based native teacher education program located on the Navajo reservation in Kayenta, Arizona. The preservice teacher preparation partnership program is designed for uncertified Navajo special and elementary education preservice students…