This paper discusses ways to make social work education more appropriate for the preparation of development practitioners to work with the people and communities of Appalachia. The current dominant theory developed by economists of Appalachian development is that of modernization. The theory emphasizes economic growth. Modernization sees society as progressing via industrialization, causing high rural to-urban migration. Acceptance of this theory, a world view that fails to take Appalachian culture into consideration, puts social work planners in a role that supports the economic system, limiting them to "cleaning up the casualties of economic activity." The theory also discourages adequate funding of social programs and robs social workers of the opportunity to improve the lives of their clients in a significant manner. Movement toward a new approach to development could open the doors for both a more appropriate development and more effective social work. An alternative model (McNutt 1987) includes: a reorientation of development goals away from economic growth and toward social objectives; a change in the measurement of growth to reflect those goals; a community level planning strategy; support for planning strategy at higher levels of analysis; technical support that relies on the talents and abilities of community people; and a structure for ensuring fulfillment of basic needs. Appropriate changes in social work education are needed and will require changes in perspective, an understanding of the region and its people, the acquisition of new skills, and better field education. 37 references. (TES)