The Use of the Teacher Observation Scale in the Development of the PLAN Teacher Training Program.

An individualized inservice training program was developed for teachers in Project PLAN (an individualized instruction program in 13 school districts throughout the U.S.). The program consisted of a preservice conference and inservice consultant services designed to encourage specific teaching behaviors. The 17-category Teacher Observation Scale (TOS) was developed for use in measuring behavior changes. It includes five behaviors on which PLAN teachers are expected to spend more time (diagnostic and didactic inquiry, decision facilitation, leading small group discussion, tutoring, giving positive verbal and nonverbal messages) and five on which they are expected to spend less time (solution giving, providing content, giving a negative verbal or nonverbal message, managing records and computer materials, managing learning material and equipment). Materials developed for the 1968-69 training program included modules on use of the computer, classroom organization, and individualization of instruction and video tape models of tutoring and group discussion behavior. Analysis of teacher behavior using TOS with PLAN teachers and a control group led to changes in the second year's training program to place more emphasis on teacher planning, classroom organization, and use of positive reinforcement. Fall 1969 TOS data showed that teacher behavior was moving in the direction of desired change; further examination and modification will be made after analysis of spring 1970 data. (JS)