Pressing social problems and inequities call attention to the need for interventions that target root causes and change systems. A significant challenge facing system change efforts is the lack of systems-based evaluation theory and methods. To address this challenge, we conducted an instrumental case study of evaluation within an exemplary…

Assessment and evaluation can be important tools in improving the effectiveness and quality of programs, especially criminal justice programs, if they are integrated into the plans and designs of strategies instead of being added later. An evaluation systems approach to program development is needed to ensure that effectiveness and efficiency are…

The extent to which evaluation research and psychology share some common objectives, methods and aims for validity is examined. The conventional dichotomy drawn between the two disciplines is seen as spurious and misleading to scholars and practitioners in each area. To demonstrate the proposed synergy between the two disciplines, an integrative…

The use of systems terms and ecological concepts is increasingly common in psychology, and in particular, community psychology. Interest in systems theory began with the development of general systems theory during the 1950's, and led to the adoption of an ecological-systems orientation which recognized the environment as a major determinant of…

The paper describes Quality Service Management (QSM) as applied to the provision of services to disabled and other special needs persons. QSM is defined as a systems approach to consumer relations based on the belief that quality care may be achieved only within the context of overall services management. Differences among "quality…

An approach to help the line administrator conceptualize and direct institutional change is presented. Postsecondary institutions are described from a systems perspective and represented in a linear diagram to identify those areas that can become focal points for renewal activities. A three-dimensional typology provides a framework of alternative…

A systems model offers an orderly way of identifying and evaluating the complex components and relationships that are present in special education systems. When applied to national or local systems of special education, it is possible to derive convenient profiles of their strengths and weaknesses, and thus to generate future improvements. As well…

A systems approach to evaluation of the Diagnostic Reading Clinic Program's progress and its effects upon participating pupils from the Cleveland schools is reported on in this document. Formal evaluation of the Diagnostic Reading Clinic Program is directed toward the following objectives: to assess the extent to which the Diagnostic Reading…

Developmental research, as opposed to simple instructional development, has been defined as the systematic study of designing, developing, and evaluating instructional programs, processes, and products that must meet criteria of internal consistency and effectiveness. Developmental research is particularly important in the field of instructional…

This study was designed to develop a methodology for evaluating the application of Instructional Technology (IT), conceived of in terms of a systems approach. An idealized model of IT was prepared based on a literature review of current models. The model was matched against basic nursing education programs purporting to use IT. A rating technique…

The paper presents a systems model for the evaluation of prevocational preparation programs for the learning disabled in Australia. The need for accountability in the area of the development of programs for the prevocational preparation of the learning disabled is discussed. Various approaches to evaluation are explored, and a systems model is…

An individualized program for teaching writing skills was initiated for high school students in a writing laboratory program. The major goal was to develop a systematic, individualized approach for teaching 300 specific writing skills. Major characteristics of the program included evaluation of student writing to diagnose and prescribe…

The Collier Country (Florida) Sheriff's Office has initiated a voluntary career development program for law enforcement and corrections officers holding ranks of lieutenant and below. The career development program is implemented through a systems approach that integrates career planning and individual assessment with performance evaluation,…

The management of innovation in instruction in English as a second language can benefit from the experience and techniques of management in the world of commerce as well as from theories and procedures in education. A systematic approach to the management of innovation emphasizes the importance of clearly defined objectives, evaluation that…

The evaluation process within special education, as in general education, most often becomes one of data collection consisting of formal and informal tests given by the school psychologist and the classroom instructor. Influences of the complex environment on the educational process are often ignored. Evaluation factors include mainstreaming,…