Briefly describes the principal relevance feedback methods that have been introduced over the years and evaluates the effectiveness of the methods in producing improved query formulations. Prescriptions are given for conducting text retrieval operations iteratively using relevance feedback. (24 references) (Author/CLB)

The Delphi technique is a method of eliciting and refining group judgments. The procedures used have three features: anonymous response, iteration and controlled feedback, and statistical group response. A series of experiments were initiated at RAND to evaluate the procedures. Upper-class and graduate students were used as subjects and general…

Discussion of information retrieval, query optimization techniques, and relevance feedback focuses on genetic algorithms, which are derived from artificial intelligence techniques. Describes an evaluation of different genetic algorithms using a residual collection method and compares results with the Ide dec-hi method (Salton and Buckley, 1990…

Describes a study of college students that examined how the use of computer mediated communication affected the transmission of performance and interpersonal appraisal information. Examined whether interpersonal judgments obtained through face-to-face communication resulted in greater positivity, but compromised accuracy, relative to…

A two-stage process for college student evaluation that combines peer assessment with self-assessment is described, and experience with it is discussed. Several necessary features are highlighted and include assessment made in steps that are absorbable and achievable by students; building student confidence from experience; and providing feedback…

Over the course of development, the ability to switch between different tasks on the basis of feedback cues increases profoundly, but the role of performance monitoring remains unclear. Heart rate indexes can provide critical information about how individuals monitor feedback cues indicating that performance should be adjusted. In this study,…

Describes study that compared the quantitative and qualitative nature of problems in instructional materials identified by undergraduate students via three methods of formative evaluation. An explanation of the process of Learner Verification and Revision (LVR) stresses assessment and improvement of the instructional effectiveness of materials in…

In a study focusing on intrinsic motivation as a possible approach to improving the motivation and productivity of Air Force personnel, a factors list was generated from a literature review and intuitive analysis. Performance feedback was selected for further study. Fourteen feedback dimensions were identified and defined; and a number of…

In this review of current practices it is observed that administrators are evaluated for two major purposes--(1) to provide a basis for school districts' decisions at the conclusion of the evaluation period, and (2) to provide feedback on performance to allow administrator improvement. A comparison is made of evaluation material from five school…

Fifty-nine inservice teachers in grades 1 through 12 took "Minicourse 20: Divergent Thinking," a course training teachers to use brainstorming to stimulate divergent thinking in students. Tapes of brainstorming sessions were made before, after, and seven weeks after the course ended. Experimental teachers improved significantly more than controls…

A study was conducted at the University of Maryland (College Park, Maryland) in the Fall 1985 15-week semester to test the effects of advanced knowledge of grading criteria on students' writing skills and attitudes in a Freshman Composition class. A holistic grading scale, which was distributed to students as a checklist for revising writing…

A comparative case study to evaluate the administration of Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Title I programs was conducted in eight state departments of education and 32 school districts. Interviews were supplemented by review and analysis of documents and available data at each site. General findings included: (1) evaluation was…

Electronic portfolios represent an assessment measure with strong potential for providing feedback about student performance to improve curricula and pedagogy, determining individual students' mastery of learning and providing feedback for improvement, and actively involving students in the assessment process. This study examined the relationship…

This document examines issues and techniques related to assessment of online learning for adult, career, and vocational education. The document begins with an overview of the disadvantages of assessing at a distance and the issue of security in the online environment. The following aspects of continuous assessment are discussed: characteristics…