Research about classroom communication, classroom management, training, and staff development form the basis around which teachers can improve their practice. Staff development programs must be dynamic to support and stimulate this process. (CB)

Cites the lack of students' understanding and practicing of science processes as evidenced in science fair projects. Major contributors to the decline in science achievement are discussed. Author suggests teachers need experience with "sciencing" in the form of original investigative projects. Coursework designed to meet this goal is described.…

Project ProCEED is a staff development model for promoting the type of professional excellence recommended in national educational reports. A six-month program designed and implemented by teachers and principals is examined. (DF)

This article briefly describes the Teacher Performance-Motivation Theory and its preservice and inservice implications. This model offers a tool for understanding classroom performance problems and suggests a range of approaches for supporting teacher effectiveness. (MT)

Examines the implications of calls for reform of secondary schools and teacher education. Focuses on meanings given to reform, including the possibility of reform as ritual and the technical rationality said to underlie the proposals. Considers how teacher education reform efforts might address critical questions not mentioned in the reports. (KH)

Presents a model describing the process of teacher change, particularly through staff development programs, and presenting opportunities for future research. Hypothesizes a temporal sequence of events that typify the process from staff development to enduring change in teachers' perceptions and attitudes. Describes conditions that facilitate…

Provides brief portraits of former students to illustrate what they taught about curriculum. (FL)

The Entry Year Assistance Program was developed by the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse to aid the beginning teacher in adjusting to the role of new teacher. Components of this program and recommendations for school systems and universities are offered to help other education institutions. (DF)

Reviews the literature indicating that most classroom communication is of the "teacher question-student response-teacher reaction" cycle, either oral or written. Argues that this dominant pattern of classroom dialogue is ill-adapted to real learning and presents an alternative model that values exploratory talk and writing. (HTH)

The Council for Basic Education has received enthusiastic feedback from teachers who have accepted its summer stipends for self-directed, indepth study in their subject areas. These efforts will not realize their full potential unless school districts recognize and use the professional expertise of these re-inspired teachers. (PGD)

Empirical studies show that the article college faculty write won't improve their classroom performance. Of nine empirical studies on the relationship between research productivity and teaching effectiveness, all concluded that there is little or no positive correlation. (MLW)

The teacher of gifted students (G/T teacher) can use Invitational Theory to improve relations with regular classroom teachers. Through introspection, planned strategies, and practice, the G/T teacher can develop qualities and characteristics to promote a congenial professional atmosphere. (MM)

The National Writing Project is a collaborative effort between teachers and professors aimed at the improvement of teaching. A discussion of the project's history and structure and implications for other cooperative efforts in inservice education are offered. (DF)

Describes six ways an English supervisor or any other instructional leader can reach beyond the school system to learn about current practices in the field. (HOD)

Discusses materials in the ERIC system concerning knowledge or schemata children have when they come to class, behaviors a teacher may observe, and suggestions teachers can keep in mind when planning creative activities that support children's meaning-making efforts. (HTH)