To fulfill expectations for history curriculum reform, schools must clarify essential instructional goals and objectives, provide increased instructional time for history, reintroduce history in elementary grades, obtain improved textbooks and materials, and provide appropriate teacher preparation and staff development programs. Includes 11…

Presents a sample of replies to a call for materials on library policies concerning professional development and professional continuing education. Included is a summary of the results of a survey of 50 libraries that was conducted by the South Central Research Library Council in upstate New York to obtain information on continuing education…

This article reports on a study of a large-scale Belgian innovation project. From interview data four types of local innovation policy (LIP) were identified. LIP's reflected the organizational reactions of schools and appeared to be determined primarily by principals interventions. LIP's were characterized by planning, interaction, risk avoidance…

Residential staff (n=156) of state schools serving hearing-impaired children were surveyed concerning perceived staff training needs. Demographic information was also compiled on residential staff, and analysis determined seven correlations between demographic characteristics and selection of training topics, such as gender and sex education,…

Describes system to help camp administrators assure that hired trip leaders maintain high standards. Details suggestions including: written procedures regarding trip conduct; cultivating sense of responsibility within leaders for trips; using lists to plan trips; and using trip logs. Includes 12 steps for successful trip camping program. (TES)

Describes the system of shared decision making used by the Bay Shore (New York) Union Free School District. Discusses the following major elements: (1) long-range planning; (2) staff development; and (3) commitment. (FMW)

Surveyed directors of student life at 87 colleges and universities in Pennsylvania to determine alcohol abuse programs offered, training needs, attitudes toward programs, and kinds of programs desired. Sixty-four percent of schools reported having alcohol abuse programs, 79 percent wanted additional training, and 71 percent reported an abuse…

Whereas the writing process is recursive, Instructional Theory into Practice (ITIP) is a linear, sequential series of instructional decisions. By understanding the relationship between these two models, staff development and curriculum specialists can assist teachers by coordinating support group sessions and followup training using a common…

Aspects of the organizational contexts of schools and classrooms and various teacher psychological states are examined to explain variations in individual outcomes of staff development intended to improve teacher performance. A path model--based on theories of individual behavior and change within organizations--is presented and tested. (TJH)

A rural staff developer's decisions should be based on a clear understanding of the unique characteristics of rural schools and rural teachers. The staff developer must understand rural staff development needs, obstacles and potential advantages of the rural setting, and characteristics of ideal staff development. (JD)

According to a recent Washington State survey, middle school educators need more than general training in teaching and administration to meet young adolescent students' needs. Respondents desired more knowledge about young adolescents' emotional, social, and intellectual development, and appropriate teaching and discipline techniques. Includes…

Presents directors of day care facilities with suggestions about ways to help staff members make the transition from one school year to another. (BB)

Discusses the use of role plays in training for human communication skills, sales skills, and management skills. Rules for the application of role plays are given, steps in designing role plays are described, typical role play structures are explained, and materials for instructors and participants are discussed. (LRW)

Descriptions and implications of five stages of professional development of science teachers are provided. Behavioral characteristics for each stage are stressed. (CW)

Presents a chronology of the growth of the National Staff Development Council from 1969-94. Some information is provided to offer a broader context about the world that surrounded the council at each particular time. Information is also included on council affiliates, staff and board members, annual conferences, publications, and awards. (SM)