The Teacher as Strategic Scientist: A Solution to Our Educational Crisis?

Abstract

The solution to the educational dilemma is tied necessarily to the ability of teachers to insure that their students achieve learning objectives that are germane to the survival of the culture and the species. The growing body of scientifically based practices necessary to eliminate the existing educational crisis is briefly outlined. It is argued that these practices can be implemented by teachers who function as strategic scientists. The science used by such teachers include research findings and teaching models incorporating that research (Precision Teaching, Direct Instruction, Programmed Instruction, Personalized System of Instruction). In order to train, support, and motivate the pervasive and sustained application of effective pedagogy by teachers who function as strategic scientists, behavior ana1ysis must be applied to all components of schooling--students, parents, teachers, and supervisors. One model for doing so has developed over the last decade. Research studies and applications in six schools for handicapped children in this coUntry and abroad suggest that this comprehensive application of behavior analysis to schooling (CABAS) is effective, efficient, and viable. THE