The pre-test indicated that teachers were, in fact, fairly competent in this area of knowledge despite their claims to the contrary. While the post-test showed some gains, the primary difference was teachers' recognition of what they already knew, as reported through teacher interviews and as demonstrated through their work in the classrooms. Teachers are more confident of their ability to facilitate group learning, as opposed to relying on traditional teaching materials and activities. Evidence of this includes teachers' reports as well as their increased use of story circles, whole language, and other non-traditional approaches to a variety of subjects. We learned how to branch a story off to cover areas such a social studies, science math and writing skills.
Teachers report and exhibit greater familiarity and comfort with alternative teaching methods.
This year, teachers primarily received training in whole language, specifically as related to the story circle process. But I can see 'the big picture now. I think I'm already practicing some alternative methods even though we haven't had a workshop. I need to see the whole thing. But I would have liked more seminars to help make sure I'm heading in the right direction.