A faculty-run, faculty-organized Office of Faculty Development at a medium-large state university beset by normal budgetary and enrollment problems is described. Programmatic requirements and pitfalls to be avoided are presented for this that views instructional improvement as its single goal. (JMD)

This article provides a self-appraisal form which can be used to inspire and rejuvenate teaching performance. Its ultimate goal is to improve teaching skills, either in general or in a particular area. Appropriate references for further reading are given. A sidebar includes one teacher's evaluation of the form and its usefulness. (JL)

Finds fault with federal and local attempts to improve and influence the teaching profession. Points out that federal and professional standards are fruitless or counterproductive in the absence of local organizations that can apply them in the classroom. (DR)

Second in a series on improving teacher education, the paper briefly explains and justifies a generalist-specialist model of teacher education and applies the framework to steps necessary to ensure adequate competence on the part of current teachers. (SB)

Shows how a mastery teaching program was applied to one Iowa school district to improve and evaluate teacher performance. Emphasizes the principal's role in such a program. (JW)

In pointing out the problems involved in evaluation by administrators, the author presents a strong argument for collegial evaluation and presents a proposal outlining a flexible system for peer evaluation of teachers. (MD)

A classroom observation checklist for evaluating secondary schools reading instruction is presented. (MJL)

Reports on some growth points in the use of microteaching techniques. (Editor)

This book looks at how portfolios may be used in the teaching profession as a powerful tool to help educators examine their beliefs about teaching, achieve personal growth and development, and work toward self-improvement. Each part of the book is independently authored. Section 1, by Maureen McLaughlin and Mary Ellen Vogt, focuses on the…

Student teacher and associate teacher interact in a brief dialogue to develop greater understanding and rapport as a working team. (RL)

The ineffectiveness of current teacher training is discussed. A major source of this ineffectiveness stems from the myth that teaching is an art.'' A contrasting view and program is presented which emphasizes the behavior a teacher must master in order to produce desirable terminal behaviors in students. (Author)

Study supported by a grant from the U.S. Office of Education.

Research findings suggest that methods used to improve teaching are as important as the goals. Solutions sought should be those that professionalize the practice of teaching and make education sufficiently attractive to recruit and retain talented people as teachers. (MLF)

A well-conceived and administered evaluation plan that incorporates the techniques of target-setting for all teachers and administrators may be one way to combat teacher burnout. (Author/MLF)