Suggests ways that transactional learning can be reflected in staff development practices. Addresses issues raised during attempts to implement a whole-language staff development program. Contends that what unites whole-language teachers is a unique but common orientation toward instruction and curriculum and that this orientation can be reflected…

Describes the Efficiency-Based Change Model, which takes into account the complexity of the change process for individual teachers. Notes that the model is being tested and refined within a variety of settings, including a staff development project designed to support a group of teachers as they explore ways to provide whole-language services to…

A rationale for teaching thinking skills to gifted students is presented, and a five-step approach is offered, including create a skills taxonomy, develop a scope and sequence chart, provide staff development time, develop unit plans, and teach and evaluate the lessons. (JDD)

Far West Laboratory has been working with groups of teachers to develop thematic Close-to-the-Classroom Casebooks. The cases are candid, dramatic, highly readable "snapshots" of on-the-job dilemmas, complete with the author's thoughts and feelings. The teacher narrative is accompanied by at least two educator commentaries aimed at…

Nebraska Cooperative Extension coordinated early childhood education conferences including child care provider training. Expansion throughout the state indicates that it is meeting an expressed need for staff development. (Author/JOW)

Describes a workshop on human development for home companions of older adults that includes sessions on identity, intimacy, generativity, integrity, trust, and communication. (SK)

A former teacher-turned-principal presents a model for providing new teachers with necessary peer support, information, and assistance. Components include a clear, concise introduction to materials, schedules, and daily school and classroom operations; a thorough building orientation; a presentation of the principal's expectations regarding…

Successful training abroad requires attitudes (respect for other values, tolerance of ambiguity, commitment, persistence, sense of humor), skills (cultural flexibility, communication, creativity, self-management), and knowledge (of home, target, and corporate cultures; human resource development theory and practice, language of the host country, a…

Describes an adventure-based initial tutor training program designed to promote effective teamwork and enhance organizational ability. Notes that an added advantage of the outdoor activity is that it renews the importance of principles that have always made writing centers effective by metaphorically echoing the mental challenges of writing…

The Richmond (Georgia) County School Improvement Program, Models of Teaching, combines four related innovations: teacher study groups, an instructional council, provision of over 100 training hours in 4 student learning models, and trained teacher cadres to assist colleagues. Criticized by some as a top-down approach, the program has maintained…

To develop codes of ethics for their profession, college human resources personnel must first understand their primary job-related responsibilities. These include being alert to evolving organizational needs; coordinating needed training of employees; appreciating the nuances of psychology, communication, and motivation; and observing employee…

The U.S. Postal Service offers an employee career development program based on Tiedeman's Lifecareer concept. Employees learn that up is not the only way, they are valued by the organization, and they are responsible for their own career development. (SK)

Surveyed guidance program directors (n=333) in national sample of public high schools about priorities and activities of their programs. Describes salient features of high school guidance programs as reported by these directors. Organizes results by categories of staffing and staff development, program development, program goals and priorities,…

Describes a peer coaching program implemented at Temple University's Reference and Information Services Department to provide staff with support in fine-tuning and maintaining certain reference desk skills. The discussion covers the origins of the program, coaching basics, and the applicability of peer coaching to the academic library setting. (12…

An evaluation of participation patterns at the Westchester Principals' Center (NY) is discussed. Fifteen principals were interviewed. Findings are presented on levels of participation in professional development activities; program preferences; and the impact of personal beliefs and values, prior experience, and district context. (IAH)