Industry/Education Staff Development That Is 'Real.'

A study was conducted in Georgia to determine the needs of vocational-technical education teachers for staff development and how those needs are being met. A review of literature revealed that, although the responsibility for maintaining competence in one's teaching field has remained with the teacher, the process of inservice education and training continues to be loosely defined and has varying levels of support across the educational community. A survey was developed and administered in person or by mail to teachers in electronics and industrial arts programs in technical institutes in the state. A total of 75 surveys were handed out or mailed, with 26 (35 percent) returned. An additional 25-item survey was administered at 6 technical institutes, with 100 percent response. The results of the studies indicate that the need for staff development has never been greater and is increasing at a time when educational systems are experiencing decreasing funding. Recommendations were made for increased educational opportunities for teachers and for teachers to take responsibility for designing and carrying out their own professional development plans. (Contains 28 references.) (KC)