Education & Pedagogy

Funded by Lockheed Martin, the University of New Mexico College of Education conducts three-week summer science academies for elementary school teachers of populations underrepresented in science and math. Native American teachers and Hispanic teachers whose families have lived in New Mexico for generations learn to use their own local knowledge to construct experiential science lessons for their students. (SV)

In China, lifelong learning has a long history--as a way to prepare for traditional civil examinations, which opened opportunities for social mobility and, later, to train the adult workforce to meet national economic objectives. In Shanghai, adult education has recently become essential for adapting the workforce to rapid economic change, but also encompasses "nonqualification education" for personal development. (SV)

Examined collaboration perceptions and patterns of collaboration between special and general-education preservice teachers. Participants were instructed to collaborate via e-mail, in-person contacts, and written products. Data from individual interviews, focus groups, and collaborative activities indicated that participants recognized personal gains from the experience, but many reported frustrations due to peer interaction. Most changed their views about collaboration. (SM)

Describes the experiences of two faculty members at two different universities who attempted to restructure the typical "mainstreaming" course for regular educators from one that provides an overview of various disabilities to one that provides strategies that build on holistic, authentic instructional approaches and adaptations appropriate for inclusive education. Responses of students are also discussed. (Author/DB)

The unique characteristics and needs of adult students in higher education are discussed, drawing on experience of the School for New Learning at DePaul University (Illinois). Issues discussed include adult learning habits, motivations of adults for continuing their education, differences in the faculty's role with adult learners, challenges in assessing older students, and assessment of adults' prior learning. (MSE)

This annotated bibliography offers information from presentations at a 1995 seminar on practical teaching experience in preservice teacher education programs throughout Europe. Each entry includes a brief abstract of the presentation and a list of keywords. (SM)

Examines the extension of Norway's half-year graduate certificate of education requirement to one year, using as an example the change that occurred at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The paper explains the importance attached by the national guidelines to teaching theory in school-based settings that offer practical classroom experience. (SM)

This paper examines three attempts to improve partnerships in the Netherlands (professional development schools, a curriculum development project, and monitor schools that report to the institution on student teacher progress and integrate theory and practice). Discusses the advantages for schools, student teachers, and teacher education. (SM)

Considers criticisms of Japanese higher education focusing on weak links between curricula and societal/professional needs. Analyzes social and policy developments in the early 1990s as they relate to system design, governance and financing, access/admission, teaching and research, relationship of education to careers, and graduate study. Concludes reform efforts have been spread over many issues, unlike efforts in Europe. (Author/MSE)

Examines progress made by Australia's new conservative Coalition government in changing teacher education, noting the approach to innovation generated under the previous Labor regime. Discusses issues remaining on the agenda, and examines opportunities for teacher educators to participate in the reform process and the possible consequences of leaving it to the new government. (Author/SM)

Discusses changes that are merging traditional, continuing, and distance education into the virtual university. Topics include for-profit or not-for-profit, the compatibility of the profit motive with the concept of quality education, cooperation between academic and corporate cultures, knowledge, information and communications technology, defining success, and new models of higher education. (Author/LRW)

Presents a historical overview of state and federal legislation concerning special education, describes how court litigation has defined the constitutional rights of the disabled to access education, and outlines the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The procedural safeguards of the IDEA also are outlined, including placement, classroom environment considerations, and provisions for preschoolers. (GR)

Stresses the Robert Dole/Jack Kemp campaign's recognition of the importance of the youth vote. Notes the efforts of the Republican National Party to involve youth in politics. Details a 10-point program, the "Education Consumers Warranty," that summarizes conservatives' approach to educational reform. (MJP)

Presents a model for Internet use in deaf education that recognizes the expertise of experienced teachers, enhances preservice teacher preparation, and develops instructional resources. Discusses barriers to teacher use of the Internet, educational Internet applications, three types of World Wide Web sites, and resources available via the Council on the Education of the Deaf Web site. Contains 20 references. (TD)

Classroom teachers are the most important element in school reform. Maryland's efforts to redesign teacher education involve a partnership between the state university system, chief higher education officer, and school superintendents and are designed to facilitate a seamless system of K-16 education, recognizing that schools must have rigorous standards and that higher education is responsible for preparing capable teachers. (MSE)