Staff development in higher education is discussed in these papers in terms of its definitions, scope, and future activities. Most of the papers were originally prepared for the working party on staff development at the Fourth International Conference on Higher Education, University of Lancaster (August 29-September 1, 1978). The first three chapters provide a conceptual basis for an examination of staff development presently and into the 1980's. Areas discussed are these: recent policies and practices; the distinction between "staff development" and "staff training"; and fundamental assumptions underlying staff development. Chapters 4 to 9 provide examples of staff development carried out in specific instances, examining such aspects as: analyzing difficulties associated with setting up staff development programs; relating such programs to career stages of teaching staff; the use of data-base staff development; staff development in the Open University; the use of specialists in instructional development in staff development programs; and the use of staff members in developmental programs. Chapters 10 and 11 emphasize personnel. Chapters 12 to 14 discuss determining the effectiveness of developmental programs and activities. The concluding chapter incorporates the views expressed in the conference papers into its own perspective on staff development. Each paper provides references. A list of contributors is also provided. (LC)