ABSTRACT
In 1975 the author developed, with Hopwood, the TARGET system of teacher appraisal. The TARGET system utilised repertory grid techniques, allowing a respondent to provide plain language statements to interpret events in terms of discrimination, organisation and the anticipation of future possibilities. The ready availability of microcomputers in the early 1980s further increased the potential for developing this as a system of self-appraisal determined by means of an interactive conversation with a microcomputer. Teachers are encouraged to take a microcomputer home with them, and test themselves in complete privacy — with the main intention of identifying their strengths and weaknesses. The system is based on the principles of personal construct psychology, which, unlike other systems in vogue, does not rely on a behavioural approach. It attempts to raise the perceptual awareness of the teachers and enable them to become more effective in their jobs.
