The naturalistic study described in this report was conducted for the purpose of determining the perspectives held by beginning teachers, the decisions based on those perspectives, the factors affecting perspectives and decision making, and implications of the knowledge gained for refining and redesigning teacher preparation and inservice training programs. Fourteen University of Alberta researchers were paired with beginning classroom teachers or interns in Edmonton and district schools. The researcher observed the teacher weekly, conducted an immediate follow-up interview, and collected relevant documents. Each researcher prepared a case study on his or her teacher which was verified with the teacher. The final report synthesizes findings for all the teachers' perspectives, beliefs and decisions, their responses to teaching, and the factors influencing their perspectives and decision making. Also provided are recommendations which reconceptualize the teacher education program in five areas: (1) the nature of the student body; (2) instructional resources; (3) the socialization of teachers; (4) program elements; and (5) continuing professional development. (Contains 63 references.) (LL)