Literature on evaluation use since 1986 was reviewed. Developments in this period include the rise of considerations of context as critical to understanding use; identification of process use as a consequence of evaluation; expansions of conception of use from individual to organizational levels; and diversification of the evaluator's role. (SLD)

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) has been the subject of many evaluations during its history. Those evaluations are reviewed, focusing on external evaluations, and the influences of recommendations made in the evaluations are discussed. The report concludes that many of the recommendations of evaluators have been heeded by…

Strategies for enhancing the social relevance of evaluation research concerning community-based residential services for individuals with severe learning difficulties or with serious psychiatric disabilities focus on: reflection of cultural values in the residential environment; number of service users living in the community; and the quality of…

This paper reviews empirical research conducted during the past 15 years on the use of evaluation results. Sixty-five studies in education, mental health, and social services are described in terms of their methodological characteristics, their orientation toward dependent and independent variables and the relationships between such variables.…

Reviews synthesis as an important task of evaluation, putting evidence together for a coherent assessment. Types of synthesis are described from the case of two variables to more complex situations, ending with metanalysis. Syntheses help identify common patterns and regularities and can help progress toward positive social change. (SLD)

Results of evaluation research studies, even those that are meticulously designed and carefully executed, often are not implemented. This article examines some of the critical factors that mediate between the carrying out of evaluation research and the utilization of findings. To illustrate these factors, two case studies are analyzed. (Author/EGS)

Discusses the limitations of laboratory research in evaluating second language instruction, arguing that field research, which fosters a concern for what works in the classroom first, is more desirable because it provides direct feedback to instructors. (Author/CB)

The purpose of this report is to comment on practice in the use of existing data bases in program evaluation and school improvement and to explore directions of increased and improved use. The report's impetus is the role that existing data plays in current efforts in local school districts and the possibilities for the future. To a great extent,…

A number of research reports and meta analyses on student evaluation of college teaching were reviewed. Student ratings were found to be multidimensional, reliable, valid, and relatively unbiased. Results were useful for feedback, course selection, and personnel decisions. Marsh's Students' Evaluations of Educational Quality (SEEQ) was also…

This review offers a general theory of utilization of educational evaluation and considers factors affecting utilization, including evaluation context factors and evaluator-controlled factors. Special challenges in evaluating programs for gifted students and design shortcomings common in evaluation of such programs are identified. Specific…

This manual provides guidelines for needs assessments based on training and development programs designed and used by business and industry. The guide defines needs and needs assessments and describes how to implement the process, using an eight-level needs assessment. Information is provided on stages of needs assessment, the process of assessing…

Traditionally, outcomes measured by postsecondary vocational education assessment have included labor force participation rates, type of employment, earnings, and employer satisfaction with employees. Today, however, legislators and policymakers are moving more and more toward accountability measures tied to students' educational outcomes, such as…