Foundational Studies in Education.

Overview & Synopsis

This module (part of a series of 24 modules) is on the basic intent of foundational studies in teacher education. The genesis of these materials is in the 10 "clusters of capabilities," outlined in the paper, "A Common Body of Practice for Teachers: The Challenge of Public Law 94-142 to Teacher Education." These clusters form the proposed core of professional knowledge needed by teachers in the future. The module is to be used by teacher educators to reexamine and enhance their current practice in preparing classroom teachers to work competently and comfortably with children who have a wide range of individual needs. The module includes objectives, scales for assessing the degree to which the identified knowledge and practices are prevalent in an existing teacher education program, and self-assessment test items. Journal articles are included on standards for academic instruction in foundations of education, a national assessment of foundations of education, and the foundational education component in regulations governing teacher education and certification. (JD)