Presents a model program for inservice college teacher education which has proven effective in upgrading the instructional quality of seminar participants. (AN)

Describes the advantage of what the author calls an individualized-inquiry approach to the teaching of science over the typical approach used by teachers. (Editor)

Researchers who undertake the evaluation of social action programs face several hazards, among which is the politicization of evaluation. Several alternatives in research methodology are suggested, as well as implications from the evaluations themselves. (DM)

"Mr. Gayfer describes the developments and the use of programmes for the academic disciplines of Ordinary and Higher National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering. Of particular interest is his approach to the production and costing of programmes, and his conclusions regarding the extensive integration of programmed texts into courses."…

First in a series of articles to be offered by Journal Professional Development Committee. Presents instrument designed to assess expectations held by students, teachers, parents and administrators in relation to personnel program in their school. (CJ)

The use of theoretical models in impact assessment can heighten the power of experimental designs and compensate for some deficiencies of quasi-experimental designs. Theoretical models of implementation processes are examined, arguing that these processes are a major obstacle to fully effective programs. (Author/CM)

Discusses the capabilities and limitations of contemporary reading software designed for microcomputers. (Available from: Modern Learning Publishers, Inc., 6517 Liggett, Oakland, CA 94611, $14.) (AEA)

Reviews a number of factors that should be considered in preparing instruments to evaluate inservice programs. Offers a sample evaluation form. (FL)

Using selected concepts, format, and techniques from the legal arena, the Judicial Evaluation Model was used to assess the efficacy of linkage arrangements between the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act prime sponsors and education service providers in the Commonwealth of Virginia. (PN)

Examines the usefulness of participatory evaluation in program development. Emphasizes formative evaluation and suggests approaches for planning participation in evaluation and adapting methods to facilitate use of participatory evaluation in adult and nonformal education programs. (JOW)

Reviews the operational steps in conducting a major needs assessment study. Discusses who should be involved in the process, when the process should be conducted, how the process should be conducted, general steps, and criteria for an effective model. (CT)

The Multiattribute Utility Model combines subjective goal definition with objective data analysis. Goals are defined, ranked, and weighted. Subjective opinions about their attainment are assigned against decision alternatives considered by the school. Bayesian analysis of data enables revision of prior opinions about the realization of goals…

Offers recommendations about how to evaluate student activity programs. (JM)

Intervention programs claiming to benefit young handicapped children are increasingly being required to provide evidence of their effectiveness. An intervention efficiency index (IEI) is proposed as a method of measuring child progress and program impact by relating changes in children's developmental capabilities to time spent in a program.…

Outcomes evaluation of community partnerships to prevent substance abuse poses many methodological challenges. The nine articles of this special section illustrate the variety of approaches evaluators have taken to studies that are often complicated because of small sample size. (SLD)