Development School Experience

Professional Development Schools (PDS) are designed not only to educate novice teachers but also to be places where university and school faculties can collaborate on research and development. This study, the initial phase of a longitudinal study, attempts to discover if an early PDS experience can develop a stronger beginning teacher than a similar program of study without the PDS experience. A survey was distributed to 73 participants, including university PDS faculty, the PDS on-site coordinators, school administrators, and university PDS students. Analysis of the data revealed that the PDS was a positive experience for all concerned. The university students received immediately relevant methods classes as well as multiple references for their portfolios from their cooperating teachers. The K-8 students have received more individual attention and help. The cooperating teacher'