Describes a new model of elementary teacher training at Western Washington University. Guided by college and public school faculty and students' preservice teachers learn how to use technology. This full-time certification program emphasizes current technology and intensive experience. A final project features students' producing useful projects…

Examines three themes in the area of standards and accountability as they apply to the current condition of teacher education in California and elsewhere: why the teacher education standards movement has gained inertia so quickly, the consequences of standards on existing accreditation processes such as that of the National Council for…

Examines specific features of the online Blackboard distance learning platform that enhance the advantages of alternative teacher certification programs, especially with regard to helping teachers develop a culturally relevant pedagogy. Focuses on North Carolina's NCTeach program, which provides an accelerated certification process for people…

The Georgia Job Analysis Questionnaire was administered in January 1987 to all certified mathematics and science personnel identified by the State Department of Education. Ratings of task statements by 1,384 science and 1,600 mathematics teachers indicated significant differences associated with racial and gender differences. (TJH)

Many current assessment practices are incompatible with the goals of independence, thoughtfulness and critical analysis; common forms of assessment are not consistent with the behavior of academics in their own contributions to knowledge; and the assessment policy of many departments undermines approaches to learning. (Author/MLW)

Described is a study which was conducted as an exploratory assessment of science reviewers' perceptions for the future of science education. Arrives at interpretations for identified categories of computers and high technology, science curriculum, teacher education, training, certification, standards, teaching methods, and materials. (RT)

Several teacher educators comment on past progress, problems, and future directions for teacher education. Topics include certification, collaborative efforts, quality of teacher education students, program content, and continuing education. The responsibility and role of teacher educators in reform efforts are emphasized. (IAH)

California state policies and regulations that force teacher education programs to limit enrollment because of insufficient resources, and discourage immigration of out-of-state teachers contribute to California's critical shortage of teachers. In addition, the quality of elementary instruction is jeopardized by regulations that diminish…

Excerpts from case reports illustrate some problems and dilemmas of three teacher trainees who entered teaching via alternative certification. The article highlights ways in which they were helped or harmed by the intervention of their mentor teachers. Based on analysis of case material, policy recommendations are made to school districts. (IAH)

Fifteen rural school superintendents surveyed in Nevada believed that raising licensing requirements would only exacerbate problems in recruiting qualified substitute teachers. They also noted that rural school districts do little to recruit substitute teachers beyond newspaper advertisements. Offers suggestions for improving recruitment while…

Describes a survey of knowledge and skills in the health information sciences conducted by the Medical Library Association (MLA) and relates the results to the MLA's educational policy statement. Credentialing for the Academy of Health Information Professionals is described, and ways to acquire medical knowledge and skills are discussed. (Contains…

This Louisiana System for Teaching and Learning Assessment and Review (STAR) illustrates conceptual, methodological, and social/political issues emerging when the decision-making model used to make teacher certification decisions does not fit the assumptions of the measurement system used to collect the data. (SLD)

This article provides a framework for the rest of the articles in this special issue comparing the utility of three standard-setting methods with complex performance assessments. The context of the standard setting study is described, and the methods are outlined. (SLD)

Organizations, foundations, and individuals are concentrating their energies on making teaching a true profession. They are seeking changes in the way teachers are prepared, how they are evaluated and certified, their continuing professional development, and their compensation and working conditions. (Author/IAH)

Reports on the development and findings of a survey by the Association of Teacher Educators. Respondents (n=944) were primarily university faculty and administrators (n=847). The two issues ranked most critical for improving teacher education related to conditions beyond respondents' control (mentoring for beginning teachers and school reform).…