This dissertation advances research on evaluation (RoE) through a trio of studies focusing on the role of context and the innovative use of Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) software in formative evaluation in a qualitative research project. The first article extends Coryn et al. (2017) and elucidates how various contextual…

This engaging text takes an evenhanded approach to major theoretical paradigms in evaluation and builds a bridge from them to evaluation practice. Featuring helpful checklists, procedural steps, provocative questions that invite readers to explore their own theoretical assumptions, and practical exercises, the book provides concrete guidance for…

The purpose of this article is to introduce a 12-step approach for an abbreviated research project to promote research writing in an undergraduate measurement course. This 12-step approach assumes a 14-week semester schedule that is common among many colleges and universities. The steps for the proposed research project include selecting a topic,…

This article describes the development and use of single subject research and evaluation for individuals involved with counseling. The case study approach and intensive design are examined in detail. (EJT)

The potential uses of microcomputers in evaluation research are discussed in this pamphlet. At the beginning, a matrix is provided showing the relationship between the steps in the evaluation research process and common types of computer software. Thereafter, the guide is organized sequentially around the evaluation research activities that are…

Describes a student field project which measured and interpreted ground-level aspects of the urban heat island in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. Discusses procedural steps and decisions, field procedures, data compiling, findings, evaluation, and dissemination of results. (Author/CK)

Trends in European practice that relate to qualitative assessment in the evaluation of the impact of research and innovation are discussed and analyzed. To date, European evaluations have been mainly concerned with quality and direct impact with few assessments of medium- or long-term impact. (SLD)

This essay focuses on a key change that the author has experienced in the practice of program evaluation research over the past 20 years: the accommodation of the logic of science and the psychology of politics. This change has substantially altered the role of the evaluator, the evaluator's relationship with clients, the design of an evaluation…

A framework is provided for asking research questions and implementing an applied urban research project. Chapter 1 gives a brief overview of the term "urban" and the field of urban research. Chapter 2 discusses how different levels of analysis can be used in doing urban research. Chapter 3 suggests the need for strategic thinking in the applied…

In this working paper and executive summary, focus is on procedures to be used in cost-effectiveness studies of the University of Mid-America/State University of Nebraska (UMA/SUN) delivery system of open learning. Two major questions are addressed: Should cost-effectiveness studies be undertaken, and if so, what kind of studies? The planning…

Evaluation training materials developed by federally funded research and development laboratories were surveyed, analyzed, and described. This project included the collection and analysis of training materials, and the development of The Consumer's Guide to Evaluation Training Materials. This final report describes the rationale, purpose, and…

A model for the assessment of funded vocational and career education projects presents a methodology for collecting data on innovative processes and materials, selecting promising practices, compiling selected innovative practices in a handbook, and dissemination of promising practices. The authors include a flow chart for the selection…