Eric.ed.gov – Innovations in Math/Science Teacher Education: A New Population; A Revised Training Agenda.

A special program was initiated in 1985 at George Washington University to encourage persons from other careers to pursue a second career in teaching in the Washington D.C. area. This report describes the variables that had to be and are continuing to be considered in the design of this training effort for mid-career professionals. Factors considered include: (1) difference in the culture of the school and the environment of the first career; (2) developmental process of learning; (3) the educated consumer and teacher education; (4) the attributes and experiences of the career population; (5) match between the mid-career professional and the level and age of the student population; (6) certification is critical, the degree is not; and (7) part-time student/full-time professional. Perspectives are also offered on reform practices for teacher education. (ML)