Although often ignored by teachers and librarians, nonfiction books can make children want to read. Teachers can create effective assignments by moving beyond textbooks to use trade nonfiction that interests students. With fiction, nonfiction makes a total literature connection that introduces, reinforces, and reviews reading skills. (SLD)

The dominant model of teacher evaluation is inadequate. Formative evaluation should be emphasized over summative evaluation, and new approaches must use legal procedures, design content-valid instruments, develop reliable indicators, and use effective conferencing techniques. Motivation and development must become the focus of teacher evaluation.…

Describes a development project for the use of computer graphics and video in connection with an inservice training course for primary education teachers in Denmark. Topics addressed include research approaches to computers; computer graphics in learning processes; activities relating to computer graphics; the role of the teacher; and student…

The focus in this report is the concept of what it means to "do mathematics" in the context of a group working committee of teachers and researchers committed to reforming mathematics teaching. During a regular meeting of this group of teachers and researchers, the participants explored the mathematical reasoning embedded in one…

This anthology of 30 stories, poems, and personal essays on diversity grew out of a writers' retreat for teachers. It features: reflections on diversity--how it can be a positive, strengthening force in teaching and learning; effective strategies for teaching and learning within a diverse population; and practical information about running a…

In the future, as societies become more technologically demanding and families find less time for socializing their young, the power of the early childhood educator (ECE) will grow. The role must be professionalized. First and foremost, child development knowledge must be the foundation of ECE expertise. Within the curriculum, the building of…

Higher salaries and improved working conditions have combined to make teaching a more attractive profession and to reduce teacher turnover rates. At the same time, however, the teaching work force has aged and faces problems in retirement programs. All levels of government should work with interested groups to find solutions to six major problems…

In making a case for the liberal arts in teacher education, the point is made that the liberal arts contribute to the professional qualifications of teaching. If teachers are to be more than mere technicians, the professional skills of problem solving, analysis, and critical thought are needed. A discussion is presented of the specific need for…

Interviews of male and female teachers working in a large urban center indicate that sex and socioeconomic variables are significant reasons for becoming elementary school teachers. Males decide to become elementary school teachers late in their college years or after graduation, often as a compromise career choice. Males appear willing to cross…

Presented is a position statement on science preparation for preservice elementary teachers. Areas addressed include: preparation in science content; science teaching methods; field experiences; faculty preparation; facilities, equipment, materials; and professional orientation. A list of recommended standards (intended to provide a framework for…

This paper discusses reasons for the mutual disregard between teacher educators and school teachers, who should be partners in preservice teacher education. Drawing upon research, the paper examines the overall context in which the work of teaching is being conceptualized in contemporary Europe, asking fundamental questions about why the mutual…

Examines teacher collaboration, collaborative arrangements, and the tools necessary for successful collaboration, as they relate to school reform. Suggests that teachers in all grade levels and disciplines need to work cooperatively with colleagues and representatives from other professional disciplines to address the public's demands for…

Presents a brief history of merit pay and includes arguments both for and against merit pay. Suggests that a program to recognize and reward what a superior teacher does in the classroom is feasible, and even recommended, for the art educator. (LS)

Creating opportunities and encouraging student-centered questioning requires a special teacher-student dynamic. Students need to be empowered to ask questions. The article explores what teachers can learn from questions students ask, focusing on learning outcomes for teachers, and using a second-grade lesson on Harriet Tubman as an example. (SM)

This article incorporates excerpts from portfolios of female graduate students to illustrate the discussion of the feminist themes that emerged. Because the student has control of the portfolio process and of interpreting meanings, it seems that portfolio development may be a powerful and supportive model for women students. (IAH)