This guidebook for vocational planners and evaluators describes the many possibilities in evaluating short-term programs. It is intended for use by educators in postsecondary institutions developing and implementing short-term programs, those providing service under the Job Training Partnership Act, and employers who provide in-house skill training. An introduction provides an overview of the project on which the guidebook is based. Chapter 2 compares short- and long-term training programs in terms of duration, philosophy, organizational context, purpose, clientele, instructional staff, curriculum, and linkage with employers. Chapter 3 reviews evaluation models. Various ways to design an evaluation and evaluation criteria and standards are presented. The chapter also offers an evaluation framework that incorporates evaluative criteria appropriate for short-term programs. Chapter 4 discusses key administrative concerns in planning and implementing evaluation. It presents guidelines for conducting all types of evaluation--evaluability assessment, needs assessment, input evaluation, process evaluation, outcome evaluation, impact evaluation, and cost benefit/cost effectiveness analysis. Chapter 5 presents additional guidelines for selecting an evaluation approach. Two innovative approaches are presented: aggregate program review and peer review. The chapter ends with the postcard model--an abbreviated method of evaluating very short programs. Four pages of references conclude the document. (YLB)