Date of Award

Spring 8-1-1991

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Robert L. Boyd

Second Advisor

Grover Baldwin

Third Advisor

Robert Estabrook

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the following research questions: (1) Is board member in-service a desirable and beneficial activity for the newly elected/selected board member? (2) Should board member inservice become a mandated activity in the State of Indiana? (3) What concepts, activities, and information should be included in the in-service process? (4) What delivery system or systems including the individuals and agencies should be used to bring the necessary information to the newly elected/selected board members? Method: The sample consisted of all 300 superintendents and all 286 board presidents in Indiana. The survey instrument was composed of four sections, with each one relating to an individual research question. Responses returned by superintendents totaled 220 for 73.3 percent, and the number received from board presidents was 154 for 53.9 percent. Mean scores of the survey were compiled. The t-test and chi-square methods of analysis, both at .05 level of significance, plus descriptive analysis were utilized in this study. Findings: Superintendents' and board presidents' responses revealed agreement and differences regarding the perception of newly elected/selected board member inservice. Conclusions: 1. Though both are in agreement with the benefit of in-service activity, the data of means responses indicate school superintendents are more favorable than board presidents toward board member training. 2. School superintendents and board presidents agree that board member in-service should be a mandated activity. 3. Though school superintendents and board presidents indicate that the topics listed in this study should be included in board member in-service, board presidents have a stronger preference for a majority of the listings. 4. School superintendents and board presidents indicate superintendents and the Indiana School Boards Association should provide board member inservice, and that the training range from five to 20 hours and be completed within one year.

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