A study investigated the responses of 169 elementary school teachers to a questionnaire collecting three types of data: (1) information pertaining to four unique items prepared specifically for elementary school teachers; (2) data regarding seven teaching roles and related activities for each role; and (3) written comments. The two situations unique to elementary education teaching perceived as being most difficult were the tasks of identifying student readiness for instruction and providing for different learning styles. Role data provided by respondents suggest the greatest concern with tasks related to "teacher as planner" and "teacher as link to the community." The teachers had particular difficulty establishing relevant and clear objectives and using assessment and evaluation techniques. Other role areas included on the questionnaire were "director and helper of learning,""counselor,""mediator,""member of teaching profession," and "member of school community." Recommendations, based on the findings, for improving beginning elementary school teachers' preservice preparation and inservice education involve examination and revision of teacher education curricula, courses that address teacher roles, and local inservice teacher education programs. (JM)