A Model for Collaborative Inservice Education.

Overview & Synopsis

A future-oriented model for faculty development and inservice education is based upon expanded collaboration and cooperation of teacher education institutions and school divisions, to the extent that preservice and inservice programs are blended into one continuing process. The School of Education at Radford University (Virginia) is in the process of implementing this model in three phases. First, the model's foundation must be based on established relationships among the teacher education institution and the school divisions it serves. Secondly, specific strategies must be implemented to assure meaningful results, expanded dialogue, and collaboration regarding both preservice and inservice programs. Finally, all cooperating institutions must recognize and have opportunities to benefit from the interchange of resources for the mutual benefit of all. This program will provide freshmen with field experiences which would enable them to determine if their interest in education merits continued professional pursuit and, if so, to help them decide upon specific subject areas or levels for later certification. Students will be encouraged to gain broader experience by observation/participation in non-school agencies. (JMK)