Staff Development for the Social Studies Teacher.

The book identifies critical variables that influence the success or failure of staff development programs for social studies teachers and provides suggestions for planning and implementing effective inservice activities. It is based on interviews with 24 educators of diverse backgrounds and the authors' own practical field experiences as well as their knowledge of the literature. The book is presented in eight chapters. Chapter I discusses the need for staff development emphasizing the number of new curriculum areas, vast array of instructional materials and strategies, and teachers' need for assistance. Chapter II focuses on the need to create a climate characterized by effective communication, organizational commitment, and community support. Chapter III examines the importance of a systematic and continuous planning process based on an assessment of long-term and short-term organizational and individual needs. Chapter IV discusses the assignment of leadership and responsibility for staff development, considering desirable traits and the advantages and limitations of various kinds of educators in relation to this position. Chapter V emphasizes the allocation of human and financial resources and discusses factors to consider in estimating these needs. Chapter VI focuses on effective goals, content, and strategies. Chapter VII lists formal and informal incentives for successful teacher participation. The concluding chapter explains the essentiality of and factors relating to meaningful evaluation and follow-up. Appendices offer a sample outline of a long-range staff development plan including a needs assessment instrument and a staff development program assessment form. (CK)