High School Social Studies Survey: Are Public Alternative High Schools Really Alternative? : Occasional Paper Number 77-2 / Minna Barrett-Goldfarb.

Similarities and differences between alternative and traditional school programs are assessed through a survey of 11th grade social studies teachers in Long Island, New York. The sample consisted of 11 alternative schools and 24 traditional public high schools containing a representative sampling of upper, middle, and lower-class students. A survey instrument consisting of open-ended and closed questions was sent to all teachers. The questions focused on who determines what curriculum topics will be covered and what classroom materials will be used; coverage of curriculum topics; emphasis placed on particular topics; and usage of curriculum materials. Teachers were asked to rank how much they agreed with the facts and views presented in these materials. To determine political and social attitudes, teachers read passages and rated themselves as to how much they felt that they agreed with the passage. Teachers' responses to all survey questions are tabulated in this document. In addition, the results are discussed. Among the findings are that in alternative schools teachers and students have control of classroom curricula and a large portion of class time is devoted to topics that are different from the standard 11th grade social studies program. Thirty-two percent of the traditional teachers determine the curricula and 68% of the topics taught are those mandated by the state of New York. (Author/RM)

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