Abstract
This paper examines the nature of teachers' experiences in one teacher center by describing their physical and verbal behaviors. Teachers were observed for a total of 27.8 hours, and each activity observed was noted in one of several categories listed under physical or verbal behavior. While the data do not permit a direct assessment of the teacher center's effects, they do disclose the nature and quality of opportunity available, and the ways teachers generally take advantage of those opportunities. The center seems to function most prominently as a curriculum workshop and resource area, with greater emphasis on the making of materials rather than on their use. It is a supportive environment with a strong emphasis on individuality. The center seems to support personal exploration and experimentation with materials, tools, and ideas. While firsthand experience is essential to the process of internalizing new concepts and beliefs, it is not sufficient in itself. The center could more fully exploit its potential to change teachers by encouraging more discussion among teachers about what they are doing in the center and in the classroom and why. (Tables with results from the observations are included.) (PB)