This paper describes the introduction of a problem-based learning program in a new doctoral program at the University of Texas--Pan American in 1998. Students were assigned the problem of studying the implementation of a two-way bilingual education in their Educational Leadership Laboratory and making recommendations regarding the use of one or…

This paper suggests that the idea of "taking stock" of the current program--reflecting on what educators believe to be best practice--and then "charting a course" of action to better align practice with vision is a deliberate way for teachers to build capacity to enact reform. It begins by providing a brief overview of the changing direction of…

Argues that standards and assessments are not the simple solution to educational reform they are thought to be and that they raise questions about the proper aims of schooling. Offers human capital development, i.e., the increase in knowledge, skills, dispositions, and social resources of adults in schools as a more potent potential for improving…

The authors argue that faculty development is a crucial aspect of curriculum reform in general education. This article describes 10 principles for conducting successful faculty development, including: (1) identifying key people; (2) helping faculty listen to each other; (3) focusing on students; (4) encouraging faculty to accept responsibility for…

Discusses staff development, examining data from a project involving the University of Houston and seven schools. Teacher interviews revealed five dimensions of school context affecting opportunities for their professional development (interpersonal, structural, individual, leadership, and synergistic). (SM)

This article profiles Bena Kallick, a renowned consultant on thinking, assessment, and school restructuring. The constant thread throughout Kallick's staff development career has been her focus on helping educators and parents examine what they want for their schools, how to achieve their vision, and what their children are learning. (SM)

Examines discontent over standards of education and its relationship to current debates about multicultural education. The paper discusses the views of critics and advocates of multicultural education as well as of those who must implement it no matter what their stance. It also notes the effects of discontent on students. (SM)

Researchers studied the impact of the Madeline Hunter school improvement approach, following students of teachers who had or had not completed development workshops and received coaching and feedback. There were significant teacher-perceived gains in implementation; student achievement scores rose but were not solely attributable to the Hunter…

Explores certain consequences of recent legislation in England and Wales to reform education in schools and universities. The paper describes new professionalism, an emerging shift in teacher values and practice, exploring nine forms of change as its sources and suggesting that at the heart of the new philosophy is a synthetic relationship between…

Reviews John Goodlad's "Teachers for Our Nation's Schools" regarding improvements in U.S. schooling and teacher preparation. The review praises some of Goodlad's positions but criticizes many as well. It suggests that the book will serve as a starting point for dialogue about change. (SM)

Study synthesized the practical wisdom of 25 staff developers nationwide who worked with high school teachers in the area of thinking to determine whether they had an informal knowledge base. Though they offered diverse perspectives, they agreed on several key goals, activities, and organizational changes. (SM)

Describes a high school staff development project that successfully improved student communication skills. In the project, teacher reflection was critical in changing classroom practice, and it led to improved student outcomes. The article describes the project, vehicles for supporting teacher reflection, and lessons learned in using reflective…

Researchers examined the operation of planned activity time (PAT) for Scotland's elementary and secondary teachers. PAT required that teachers devote 50 hours per year to planned school and professional development activities. Interviews indicated PAT was successful, though teachers criticized certain aspects and wished their opinions were…

Summarizes findings from the Saber-Tooth Project related to systemic change and student learning, concluding that vision is everything; workplace conditions must be addressed at multiple levels; strong relationships exist among planning, teaching, and assessment; and improvement in reform may occur due to the cessation of business as usual. This…

Explores the issues and agendas affecting teachers in a pilot graduate program for 52 veteran K-12 teachers. Provides an overview of the learning community model and applications for professional development. Suggests the learning community model is a way to support and inspire teachers and enhance teacher efficacy. (RS)