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CONCLUSIONS AND RECOWENDATIONS
This interim report on the Darmstadt Community Survey can be
concluded with some general evaluations of the work in progress,
comments on the problems which the project faces between now and
its completion, and specific recommendations.
Our description of the development of the project has suggested
some of its accomplishments and difficulties. On balance, we believe
that the project is proving its worth and that it will carry through
to a successful conclusion. The problems which it faces, however,
should not be underestimated.
In its educational aspect, the project is most certainly
achieving its purpose.  Individuals are being trained in modern
methods of social research. They are putting their skills to
practice and as the project continues, they will become increasingly
proficient. Perhaps fifty persons will have served at different
times as members of the staff before the project is concluded. Most
will have had a variety of research experiences which they probably
could obtain in no other way in Germany. Some will develop a
competence in research which, added to the training they have already
received in universities and other institutions, should make them
specialists for work in trade unions, industry, government service,
and other areas of activity. Some of them will carry their knowledge
back into university circles.
It appears that the experiences of the staff and other partici-
pants in the work have been liberalizing ones. The program of the
project has necessarily required democratic participation with the
result that this group experience will undoubtedly leave its impression
on the participants.
The staff should not be lost after the project is completed in
June 1950. They should be assisted, wherever possible, in obtaining
positions where their experiences on the project can be best utilized.
If the idea of community research spreads in Germany, as is likely,
these staff members could constitute the cadre around which other
staffs can be built.  If trade unions and other organizations come
to use social research more and more, es it seems they will, these
staff members could make important contributions to such organizations.
If German universities build an empirical social science, as they
should, some of these staff members can play significant roles in that
development.
Particularly is this true of the director, Dr. Schachtschabel,
ana the senior staff members, Drs. Rackebrandt, Kuhr, and Mausolff.
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