Program evaluation must be practiced by all members of all trades, disciplines, professions, or any other group of people whose efforts are aimed at making a difference. There is a role for "content free" evaluation methodology resources, but not for a professional "content free" evaluator. (RL)

The Optimal Treatment approach to needs assessment consists of comparing the most desirable set of services for a client with the services actually received. Discrepancies due to unavailable resources are noted and aggregated across clients. Advantages and disadvantages of this and other needs assessment procedures are considered. (Author/RL)

Written in response to George Fairweather's position concerning the use of experimental studies in evaluation, this paper highlights considerations in deciding when experimental procedures are feasible. The current debate on the use of experimental methods in evaluation is reviewed. (Author/GK)

Three evaluation methodologies used in studies of volunteer utilization are reviewed: model-program comparison, benefit-cost analysis; and qualitative program review. The importance of utilizing a comprehensive evaluation incorporating all three methodologies is discussed using an ongoing community mental health center volunteer program as an…

Using selected concepts, format, and techniques from the legal arena, the Judicial Evaluation Model was used to assess the efficacy of linkage arrangements between the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act prime sponsors and education service providers in the Commonwealth of Virginia. (PN)

This critique examines Tellado's account (TM 510 179) of his evaluation of a problem-solving program. The program was apparently successful but did not survive. By examining the program as an organizational change intervention, several problems are uncovered regarding its design, implementation, evaluation, and institutionalization. (Author/BW)

An introduction and overview to document analysis as a retrospective data collection technique are presented. (PN)

How some of the past literature creates the impression of an inevitable method-paradigm linkage and of a forced choice between qualitative and quantitative paradigms is shown. Difficulties of making method choices are considered. It is suggested that purposefully developed strengths of different methods should not be ignored. (Author/GK)

An evaluation model is presented which provides a structure and a process for the evaluation of school psychological services. The structure incorporates service areas along required service dimensions; the method involves a process leading toward program modification efforts and reevaluation. (Author/GK)

An evaluation methodology based on problem-solving techniques which can be effective and efficient in defining and analyzing problems which impair program performance is described. The model provides a potentially unique cost/benefit methodology for estimating the potential worth of improving program performance. (Author/RL)

Two main themes are found in the previous critiques (TM 510 180, TM 510 181, and TM 510 182) of the Tellado evaluation (TM 510 179): that Tellado lacked a clear audience for his evaluation and that he lacked an appropriate change orientation. A major problem with utilization-focused and stakeholder-based approaches to evaluation is revealed.…

Using a contextual model for evaluation, a goal-oriented method was applied to the health psychology doctoral program at the University of California--San Francisco. The results indicated significant faculty/student differences in rating educational and resource objectives. (Author/CM)

A theoretical model of an effective experiential educational program for training evaluators is described. Two operating programs are assessed against the requirements of the model. The results of a quasi-experimental evaluation of the effectiveness of the programs in producing important educational outcomes are reported. (Author/PN)

The administrative history, staffing levels, and content of school guidance activities in the Eugene (OR) Public Schools were examined. Schools were compared to estimate differences in recipients and types of services. Different levels and types of services were provided secondary and elementary students. Schools with stable programs provided a…

Problems in conducting program evaluation in third world countries can be divided into four interrelated categories: those associated with design, personnel, time, and budget. Some of the problems in each of these areas are considered and suggestions for dealing with them are presented. (Author)