This commentary on the special issue, entitled "Models and Tools for Systems Learning and Instruction," highlights the accomplishments of the papers in this collection. It also points to some avenues for further strengthening research on promoting systems understanding. Collectively, the papers make advances in our understanding of how…

The concept of ideology is discussed. An evaluation design that is based on values and ideologies is advocated so that it can be applied to services in different categories and still produce valid comparisons. (Author/AL)

Evaluation models have been taken as methodologies for actually conducting evaluations, instead of as persuasions or frameworks within which more specific constructs and methods must be placed. Although evaluation models do not provide methodologies, they do provide a guide for thinking about how an evaluation could be conducted. (Author/LC)

It is argued that outcome evaluation should include efforts to identify and measure unintended outcomes. A systems perspective is presented which treats governmental actions as disequilibrating intrusions into reacting systems. Both intended and unintended outcomes of such intrusions can be valued monetarily, in terms of human rights, or both.…

The paper focuses on catalysts needed for interagency cooperation in multi-service delivery systems for handicapped individuals. The importance of interfacing personal and environmental profiles is emphasized, and an approach matching aspects of the person and the environment is described. A behavioral skill profile of the person would be matched…

The evaluation of educational programs in higher education needs a better theoretical base than it has had. Proposals as to what that base should encompass are discussed and an approach that involves a more adequate conceptual and procedural model is explored. Focus is on a systems viewpoint. (JMD)

The rupture between evaluation and action is seen as a failure to take a systems view of the situation. Both the organization and the proposed evaluation program must be understood as interactive systems, which mesh with, rather than oppose, each other if they are appropriately designed and implemented. (MLW)

In order for health program evaluation to keep up with the evolution of disease patterns and epidemiology, a systems approach is proposed. Recommendations are made for the essential element in such an approach, namely, an integrated, comprehensive data base. (Author/AL)

The need for and applicability of general systems theory in human services evaluation is discussed. The role of evaluation in human services agencies is described and the necessity of combining the programs to be evaluated and the evaluation process itself in a single unifying conceptual model is demonstrated. (Author/AL)

A method for defining alternative training approaches is discussed, including the application of new technology and the use/modification of existing training devices. The problem of evaluating the utility of videodisc-based training systems for high-tech military tactical systems is addressed. (Author)

To design cost-effective solutions to nursing practice problems, staff development educators must be able to identify problems accurately. This article presents approaches to problem identification and criteria for problem classification that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of staff development departments and activities. (Author)

Research in assessment and intervention with developmentally disabled children has led to important advances in recent years. This article identifies conceptual and practical issues important to the process of behavioral assessment, and presents a framework for the behavioral assessment of the developmentally disabled, with special emphasis on…

It is argued that although many institutions conduct informal and unrecorded post-tenure faculty evaluations, these evaluations lack authority, and adoption of a system of regular, formal evaluations would allow institutions to avoid the crisis mentality most adopt concerning planning and staffing. (MSE)

Presents a process definition of task analysis and discusses how various techniques of analysis--breaking the task into its constituent elements, determining the relationship between these elements, and restructuring for performance and instruction--relate to this perspective. Two decision tables, a master design chart, and 28 references are…

Discusses the management and evaluation of diversity in the workforce and emphasizes the need to link diversity issues with organizational goals and performance needs. Differences between a "quick fix" and systematic action are examined; distinctions between a program and a process are explained; and measuring results of diversity…