Shows how guidelines from Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" can be used to evaluate computer-based projects in the schools. Guidelines include caring about the project, viewing it from the perspective of the specialist and the common person, and being systematic in approach. (KRN)

Describes nature and usefulness of process evaluation techniques, stressing their importance in understanding why and how drug treatment programs succeed and fail. Specific aspects of process evaluation discussed include topics for conducting such analyses, diverse data sources which should be accessed in thorough process evaluation, and decision…

Discusses strategic planning and describes three levels of strategic planning and thinking that can occur within an organization. Differences between reactive and proactive planning are explained, and a strategic planning model is presented that includes data collecting, planning, and implementation and evaluation. (10 references) (LRW)

Presents a conceptual framework intended to indicate the need to consider curriculum implementation, staff development, and evaluation as integrally linked in the curriculum change process and to reinforce the idea of involving teachers meaningfully. (RS)

Simultaneous evaluations of the existing Department of Veterans' Affairs pharmaceutical distribution system and an alternative "prime vendor" distribution concept in the private sector were conducted. This review of the methodology illustrates the problems and advantages in conducting large multisite evaluations simultaneously. (SLD)

Discusses Donald J. Kirkpatrick's Level 4 evaluation model and how and whether to measure the value of training today. Suggests that a balanced view is needed to measure hard- and soft-skill performance gauges, tangible and intangible benefits, and long- and short-term results. (JOW)

The six chapters of this theme issue present participatory evaluation as a viable and creative addition to contemporary evaluation practice. Practical and transformative participatory evaluation streams are identified, and participatory evaluation is illustrated through case studies. (SLD)

The nine articles of this theme issue provide overviews of legislative program evaluation and demonstrate the tensions caused by the conflict between utility and rigor in such evaluations. Legislative evaluation is concerned with evaluation utilization because legislators commission evaluations they expect to use. (SLD)

Used concept mapping and pattern matching in exploratory research to investigate differences in stakeholder perceptions of training results and evaluation. Group perceptions and the individual perceptions of 39 managers, product developers, and training professionals show that all stakeholder groups agreed reasonably well about the importance of…

Describes development of the IES Model Assessment Practice (MAP), a set of detailed criteria to use in evaluating IES study abroad programs and discusses how IES is beginning to implement MAP. (Author/VWL)

Presents a comprehensive evaluation framework and applies it to a family empowerment program in Montana that was developed as an aspect of welfare reform. The framework encompasses seven areas from developing objectives to developing a sound conceptual framework. (SLD)

Describes the program developed at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada, to promote the academic and workplace success and social and emotional adjustment of students with learning disabilities. Presents details of the evaluation planned for this program, emphasizing the importance of flexibility. (SLD)

Presents an assessment tool for Women's Studies Programs, a survey based on the student-oriented instruments found in "The Courage to Question: Women's Studies and Student Learning" and "Students at the Center: Feminist Assessment," both edited by Caryn Musil. Evaluates the survey as an assessment tool and for gathering student data. (DSK)

Inclusive evaluation is intended to emphasize a participatory, collaborative approach to evaluation. This panel considered what inclusive evaluation approaches look like in current practice and how to implement these approaches in practice successfully. The importance of respecting stakeholders is emphasized. (SLD)

Provides an argument for incorporating consideration of consequences into validity theory that is grounded in the reflexive nature of social knowledge. It also calls for the consideration of evidence of validity based on the actual discourse surrounding the practices and products of testing. (SLD)