University of Virginia Library

Education Research Course
Begun For Undergraduates

By Rob Buford
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer

A pioneer program designed to
provide training for third and
fourth year undergraduate students
in the relatively young field of
educational research has been announced
by Richard M. Brandt,
professor in the University's Curry
Memorial School of Education.

Approximately 20 students "interested
in receiving intensive training
as educational research evaluators
and information specialists"
will be selected next fall.

Rather than follow the regular
teacher education program, which
normally includes student teaching,
the trainees will participate in a
series of courses and practical
experiences that emphasize educational
and behavioral research procedures.

Mr. Brandt referred to the
"turmoil going on in education
today. We want to find out what is
going on." He continued, "Students
who have discovered an interest in
introductory courses in psychology,
sociology and the other behavioral
sciences as well as applied mathematics
and philosophy might want
to make this a major field of
study."

Mr. Brandt said that there are
currently about 2000 persons involved
in educational research.
Experts indicate that by the year
1972 the number of such persons
needed will be about 130,000.

"Because the program is in such
an early stage," said Mr. Brandt, "it
will necessarily be small and selective."
He stated that he has already
contacted several persons around
the University in an effort to begin
recruitment early.

Students involved in the program
could expect to fill the rising
need through employment in
school systems and in industry. The
program will have special appeal to
persons interested in education as a
career, but who have no interest in
teaching as such.

In industry, there is a rising need
for experts in training programs for
employees. Evaluators and information
specialists would be particularly
helpful in this area.