Learning from evaluation is discussed with reference to the experiences of the Norwegian aid administration. The study demonstrates that evaluation builds learning through involvement and through communication. An organization can maximize its learning by making the two modes supplement each other. (SLD)

Discusses the evaluation of library reference service; examines problems with past evaluations, including the lack of long-term planning and a systems perspective; and suggests a method for continuously monitoring and improving reference service using quality improvement tools such as checklists, cause and effect diagrams, Pareto charts, and…

Reports on a study of efforts by 76 college economics departments to assess faculty teaching effectiveness. Discusses four assessment methods: (1) classroom visits; (2) teaching materials; (3) formal follow-up; and (4) informal soundings. Concludes that many feel uncomfortable with the evaluation process. (CFR)

Researchers evaluated community social action education programs for at-risk youths using a portfolio and panel review evaluation process. Each program assembled portfolios that an expert panel analyzed for successful program components. Panelists then participated in focus groups. Results detailed 13 features necessary to make such community…

The five articles of this theme issue focus on new developments in the evaluation of science education programs that have both substantive and theoretical implications for the field of evaluation. Past and current evaluation approaches are reviewed, and an overview is given of new assessments consistent with new curriculum developments. (SLD)

This paper presents a schema for measuring the effects of prevention programs in mental retardation, using 43 items that are quantifiable, accessible, and pertinent to disability outcomes. The items relate to service indicators, risk indicators, and incidence/prevalence information in the prenatal, perinatal, and childhood periods. (Author/JDD)

Three conventional quasi-experimental evaluations of school-based smoking prevention programs produced no statistically significant effects on children's knowledge and behavior. Complementary evaluations of the implementation process provided empirically grounded hypotheses to justify continued intervention. Results indicate complementary…

To identify general principles of implementing a system of evaluation, the experience of Malawi in building a national system for agriculture is described. Applying principles of both centralization and decentralization and principles of trial and error has helped translate theories of evaluation into practice in Malawi. (SLD)

Analysis of patient logbooks kept by 75 medical students in a family medicine clerkship provided a great deal of information about the nature of students' experience, changes taking place as the year progressed, the degree to which program objectives were being met, and differences between sites. (MSE)

Examines results of a three-year survey by the St. Louis Public Library to measure benefits users derive from its services relative to costs of providing them; the ultimate goal was to develop and test a practical, conservative cost-benefit methodology. Cardholders surveyed were general users, business users, and teachers/caregivers. (AEF)

Needs assessments require staff with the necessary expertise to design the study, collect the data, analyze the data, and present results. They require money, time, and persistence, because the people one wishes to assess often are difficult to access. This article argues for the centrality of a well-done needs assessment when developing services…

This paper discusses how assessment practices in higher education can improve or hinder learning. An example is given to illustrate some common educational practices that may be contributing to underpreparation and underperformance of students. Elements of effective learning environments that may better address underlying metacognitive issues are…

This article presents a framework for developing internally sustainable evaluation systems for environmental education organizations, although the framework can be applied to other types of organizations. The authors developed a sustainable evaluation framework (SEF) with the intent of creating an evaluation system that could be self-administered…

The author describes potential evaluation capacity-building activities in contrast to the specifics of an evaluation design. Her response to the case of the Bunche-Da Vinci Learning Partnership Academy is developed in three parts: (1) an initial framing of the Bunche-Da Vinci situation; (2) what should be done before signing a contract; and (3)…

Purpose: We describe the results of the dissemination of an efficacious, home-based exercise program called Strong for Life as it was implemented in a nationwide, volunteer caregiving program called Faith in Action, including training of volunteers who implemented the program, recruitment of older adult participants, exercise adherence, and…