Presents the theoretical aspects of a data analysis methodology that can help transform sequential raw data from a database into useful information, using the statistical analysis of patents as an example. Topics discussed include relational analysis and a technology watch approach. (Contains 17 references.) (LRW)

Visualizes an increase in the scope of intelligence service from a purely military domain to a public service framework. Enhancements in information management, analysis techniques, and communication modes are cited as developments likely to expand the application of intelligence as a discipline in the next decade. (SW)

Data and information needs of college administrators are discussed, along with the uses of information to support decisionmaking. Difficulties in applying information technology to the administration of higher education are briefly reviewed. Data and information are discussed both in definitional and functional terms. Data are defined as either…

Describes how data from an employee attitude survey were used by the city of Phoenix, Arizona, as part of its city organizational development effort, to generate over 400 organizational changes and to increase personnel development of over 200 management employees. Includes a summary of survey results identifying training needs. (MF)

A conceptual synthesis is presented of the ways in which multilevel methods of data collection, analysis, interpretation and reporting can be used in instructional improvement activities in local school districts. This discussion of multilevel methods in school settings focuses on the "what" of information needs and usage. Principles and…

This essay derives from roundtable discussions of teams from seven research universities involved in a Knight Collaborative Engagement on Academic Indicators and Information Systems to Guide Resource Decisions. While colleges and universities are built on the premise that good data, well tested by an often adversarial process of discovery and…

School climate is an elusive but powerful concept that has captured the attention of both researchers and practitioners, but choosing an instrument to assess climate can be very complicated. This monograph accordingly discusses four basic issues that should be considered prior to selecting an instrument to measure school climate: purpose, choice…

This collection of reports on the measurement and meaning of unemployment consists of 13 papers devoted to some of the deficiencies in youth employment statistics, some of the necessary considerations in their implications, and many of the issues involved in their application to assess program impacts. Analyzed first are the youth labor force…

Training indicators are functional suites of quantitative and qualitative indicators of current or future vocational education and training (VET) supply and demand. The training indicators approach to educational planning considers indicators of present and likely future conditions for skilled labor and forms judgments about the most appropriate…