In addition to training and knowledge of particular programs and legal requirements evaluators need interpersonal skills. Sensitivity to and rapport with staff and community as well as respect and commitment of administrators, particularly school superintendents, are critical. To make their work useful, evaluators should be facilitators, not…

Twenty-six congressional staff members dealing with educational legislation were surveyed concerning their sources of information and the relative importance and value of educational inquiry in various stages of the policy process. Conclusions were drawn and recommendations regarding improvement of the process were made. (MH)