This paper addresses the question of whether there is a clear destination for the Professional Development School (PDS) movement, examining whether perceived destinations are appropriate. The paper begins by outlining the commonly accepted four-part mission and the characteristics of PDSs; then it summarizes some of what is known about PDS…

This paper addresses four questions about Professional Development Schools (PDSs). Regarding question 1, "What do we know?", there are approximately 1,035 P-12 schools designated as PDSs in 47 states. Research indicates that the PDSs help bridge the gap between university- and school-based educators. They also help practicing teachers…

Three major purposes have been proposed for Professional Development Schools: (1) to improve education of prospective and practicing teachers; (2) to strengthen knowledge and practice in teaching; and (3) to strengthen the profession of teaching by serving as models of promising and productive structural relations. At present there is neither a…

One of four articles in the fourth section, "Aspects of Evaluation of PDS," this article by the coordinator of the Clinical Schools Clearinghouse looks at how the scope and scale of PDS information has changed since 1991 and what inquiries from the public and trends in the literature suggest about emerging issues. (SM)

One of five articles on professional development schools in this theme issue. This annotated bibliography of resources from the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) features journal articles, reports, and project descriptions related to conceptualizations, planning, implementation, and evaluation of professional development schools. The…

Examines major critiques from the literature on the Professional Development School (PDS) equity agenda and accomplishments, referencing works from literature on PDSs, diversity, urban education, and multicultural education. The paper focuses on issues related to poor or working-class learners in PDS settings and learners from non-European racial,…

This digest provides an overview of a new institution, the professional development school (PDS), and of its place in improving public schooling. The PDS is the result of a collaboration between universities and local school districts. In recent years, the literature has suggested that public schools as they exist today cannot adequately prepare…

This book examines U.S. progress in revitalizing teacher education and reforming K-12 education via Professional Development Schools (PDS's). The book discusses whether PDS's are: improving K-12 curriculum and instruction through faculty development; making substantive, positive differences in students' learning levels; addressing the needs of…