The authors provide an overview of the Cooperative Extension System and its program evaluation challenges. Part of the historic land-grant system, Extension exists in all states and territories of the United States and is funded through federal, state, and local (usually county) appropriations, as well as competitive grants and other sources.…

As long as vocational education is presented as an investment in the future, it must stand the test of economic evaluation. Research on its economic effectiveness is essential to more informed public policy and support for vocational programs. (SK)

Argues that student achievement cannot be improved unless teachers can implement effective instructional methods. Presents recommendations for using federal and state policy levers to change classroom practices by empowering school staff to participate in reform decisions; for funding of program evaluation and schools tied to adopting effective…

Outlines criteria of distance education success established by both the state of Iowa and the Federal Star School program. Discusses progress made by Iowa toward federal goals, including infrastructure development, service to underserved learners, improved instruction, increased professional development, greater access to electronic technologies,…