The "Forum Guide to Metadata" presents and examines the ways in which metadata can be used by education agencies to improve data quality and promote a better understanding of education data. Supported by metadata-related case studies from state and local education agencies, the guide highlights the uses of metadata from a technical point…

With the widespread use of learning analytics (LA) tools, there is a need to explore how these technologies can be used to enhance teaching and learning. Little research has been conducted on what human processes are necessary to facilitate meaningful adoption of LA. The research problem is that there is a lack of evidence-based guidance on how…

This research project case is a recount of my personal experience in conducting a study on web-enhanced learning within Cambodian higher education. The research forms the basis of my PhD in Education, and the aim of the study is to examine the application of web-based technologies to support teaching and learning practices by using design-based…

Needs sensing is any type of systematic assessment of needs ranging from formal data collection through surveys to a more informal use of expert opinion through advisory groups. It is especially difficult to use systematically collected, data-based needs in research and development (R & D) organizations because they typically: (1) have the…

The nominal group technique (NGT), a needs assessment methodology that can be effective in many situations related to marketing education, is used to identify and collect information in a small group setting. It is a special purpose group process appropriate for identifying elements of a problem situation, identifying elements of a solution…

Reports the results of a survey designed by the Council of Chief State School Officers that provides an overview of geography instruction in U.S. public schools. Suggests that the high response rate indicates strong interest in geography instruction. Finds a great need for state and district level workshop training. (KO)

A project was conducted to develop and field test a practical model, usable by vocational educators, which would assess the extent to which sex bias and sex stereotyping exist in Florida's vocational education programs. The needs assessment model development phase of this study, accomplished through literature reviews, resulted in the development…

The purpose of the research project was to develop a comprehensive evaluation model that could be used to revise and improve adult education programs. The Jefferson County School System was selected for testing the model, and the problem was to determine how adequately the system provided quality adult education programs to meet the needs of the…

Explores the process of needs assessment within the In-Service Education and Training (INSET) program for unqualified primary teachers in Namibia and presents the various stages of an effective needs assessment model. Summarizes the study from which the model emerged and reviews literature related to needs assessment for INSET. (CMK)

A series of national meetings with a professional working group were held to discuss data issues, needs, and priorities in order to determine national data needs for vocational education. The study team gathered detailed information on current federal-level data collection efforts relevant to vocational education. Local and state data collection…

A survey of admission criteria and educational practice and policy at selected preservice teacher education institutions yields data on a variety of subjects pertinent to teacher education in general. Areas of investigation explored by this combination interview/survey include the undergraduate teacher education program entrance and graduation…

This report concerns the governance of the structure of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), especially the law and the role of the Assessment Policy Committee (APC). The major sources of evidence include interviews with APC members and National Institute of Education (NIE) staff, minutes of APC meetings and historical documents…

A one-week VTAE (Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education) Researcher Workshop was designed to increase the research competencies of Wisconsin VTAE staff members working with research and evaluation projects through a hands-on approach. Based on a needs assessment conducted with the participants, the agenda included sessions on various aspects…

This document presents findings from a 5-year study of the effect of the standards-based reform movement on students with disabilities. The study used pragmatic evaluation strategies that integrated both quantitative and qualitative collection methods of data and site visits to 10 high schools in six districts (including urban, rural, and suburban…

To assist in its mission of providing information in the most timely manner, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) contracted for a study of current modes of information dissemination to its user population that would also identify new and emerging technologies for information dissemination. The project is divided into three phases…