The author critically reviews recent suggestions from Buchmann, Fenstermacher, and Zumwalt that teachers draw their own conclusions from research findings, rather than accepting the conclusions researchers draw. Drawing on Gusfield's analysis of the language of social science, the author considers the suggestions as proposals for the rhetoric that…

This paper discusses several interrelated processes aimed at helping teachers to use an experimental approach to improve their teaching. In making a diagnosis, the teacher generates a hypothesis about the relationship between his/her potential behavior and its effect upon the students. Following the formulation of such a hypothesis, the teacher…

This paper summarizes an examination and critique of literature related to the application of developmental theories to teacher education. Analysis of selected readings revealed a weak bond between the theoretical framework of developmentalists and concrete practices. It was concluded that, though much may be gained from a developmental theory of…

Schools have been accused of being insensitive to students' cultural backgrounds, and thus of failing to serve some populations because instruction and curricula are designed for middle class children. But teachers should be cautious about applying the findings of ethnographic studies which address this problem. Although ethnographic studies…

Three scholarly efforts, in addition to kindergarten through grade 12 research, are necessary before research and development is likely to improve teacher education. First, systematic development efforts must be undertaken to reexamine and translate elementary-secondary research findings into articulate sets of curricula for teachers. Second,…

Discusses possible contributions of research on teacher thinking. Examines arguments made against the present or potential contributions of research to teacher education. Shows how the dangers that give rise to these fears can be avoided without simultaneously eschewing the positive contributions of research. (JS)

This Issue Paper includes two papers: (1) "What Can Research on Teacher Thinking Contribute to Teacher Preparation? A Second Opinion," by Robert E. Floden and Hans Gerhard Klinzing, and (2) "Taking Account of the Distinction between Knowing and Thinking in Teaching," by Magdalene Lampert and Christopher Clark. Both sets of…