This study is an examination of what teacher preparation institutions in the Canadian province of Alberta are teaching student teachers about ‘assessment-for-learning’ practices. A large body of research exists to show that assessment-for-learning practices are among the best tools educators have for improving student learning; therefore, it is important that assessment-for-learning practices be taught to prospective teachers. As a school administrator, I had encountered many first-year teachers who seemed to be lacking knowledge and skills in assessment-for-learning practices and I sought to determine whether or not the deficiencies could be traced to inadequate preparation during their undergraduate training. Interviews were conducted with instructors at seven Alberta education faculties on whether and how assessment-for-learning practices were integrated into their teacher education programs. There is some variance in the way courses are organized to teach assessment-for-learning practices to student teachers; some schools having a designated course on assessment, others embedding assessment into other teacher preparation courses. Overall, the findings in this study suggest that Alberta education faculties are providing future teachers with training in assessment-for-learning practices. Further research into other areas of teacher preparation and/or induction would be necessary to determine the reasons for deficiencies in new teacher knowledge of assessment-for-learning practices. This study also includes some recommendations for improving instruction in assessment for learning at Alberta teacher preparation institutions, as well as some suggestions for further study. / vii, 73 leaves ; 29 cm

This study, based on survey and interview data, seeks to understand how and why teachers in Catholic schools can be supported in their own spiritual development. The research describes and suggests ways to support and nurture spiritual formation for those who accept the vocation of teaching in Catholic schools. Employing survey and interview methods, this inquiry is philosophically rooted in four Lonergan precepts of human consciousness. Be attentive; be intelligent; be reasonable; be responsible. The study begins with attentiveness to the researcher's personal experience followed by an attending to the literature relevant to that lived situation. The formation of an intelligent inquiry into the questions arising from the named experiences deepens into a reasonable and responsible summary of the knowledge gained through the research. Teachers from a small urban/rural Catholic school district were surveyed. Of the 267 surveys distributed, 112 were completed and returned (42%). From those surveyed, five volunteers were selected to be interviewed, responding to nine questions regarding spiritual formation and the factors contributing to it. Recommendations that may nurture the spiritual development of teachers in Catholic schools are put forth in the concluding chapter of the thesis. These include recognizing teaching as ministry and supporting it as such; remaining attentive to the life questions of those in the vocation of teaching; leadership through example and witness; and nurturing the building of rich, authentic relationships in the school community. / x, 143 leaves ; 28 cm.