The design and conduct of a national evaluation study is discussed, demonstrating that a control group may not provide the no-cause baseline information expected. Resolution of this problem requires reexamination of paradigms, research practices, and policies, as well as the underlying real world constraints and views that generate them. (PN)

The dilemma inherent in formal standards results from the tension between maintaining quality control and constraining creativity. This dilemma is nowhere more apparent than in matters of method: measurement, sampling, research design, and statistical analysis. The author offers suggestions for revision of the standards to allow for specific…

The design of a nurse practitioner program evaluation should (1) account for program complexity; (2) allow for judgmental and objective data; (3) provide formative data for decision making; (4) be tailored to the individual program; and (5) be relevant and meaningful to the audience. (SK)

Surveyed counselors to determine their training and perceived competence in program evaluation skills. While most mental health counselors were well-versed in research and statistical procedures, many believed they were inadequately prepared in program evaluation methods. Suggests these skills have to be learned on the job. (JAC)

The last section of a three-part series deals with computer hardware requirements, program installation, and evaluation techniques. The first two parts appeared in the July and September 1981 issues. (Author/MLF)

The American Correctional Association's Project CULTURE represents the first federally funded program designed to bring arts and leisure programs to inmates in long-term correctional institutions. In addition to Project CULTURE, a national survey on the status of the arts and recreation in correctional institutions was conducted. (JN)

Discusses the methodology employed to evaluate systematically the entire core program of study at Oregon State University's School of Business. Examines the review methodology which took into consideration topic coverage, unnecessary duplication, and resource constraints; how results of the review were used; and benefits of the review. (CT)

Suggests ways to adapt five methods of evaluation to recruitment literature. Methods discussed are: (1) evaluation as measurement; (2) evaluation as the assessment of congruence between objectives and achievement; (3) evaluation as professional judgement; (4) evaluation as decision-maker; and (5) evaluation as comprehensive or goal-free…

The process of school self-evaluation outlined here suggests that, as a first step towards providing relevant information to the community, the school study itself. The major aspiration is for teachers to describe and share professional practice with colleagues. (Author/SJL)

Criteria for usefulness of evaluative information have changed and this means the model of evaluation used by extension must meet the new criteria. Evaluation research is now considered the legitimate model for evaluation; it can aid decision makers by providing data for making unpopular decisions. (LRA)

Is it ethical to select clients at random for a beneficial social service, then deny the benefits to a control group for the sake of science? Participation of control groups in planning, implementation and evaluation of social programs may resolve ethical issues. (Author/CP)

A method is described for estimating changes in the rate of development because of an early intervention program as applied to developmentally disabled children. The clinical usefulness of the technique described seems to outweigh the potential for admitted but unavoidable methodological imperfections. (Author)

This paper has presented a model for the evaluation of management information systems. The three levels of information considered were actual, perceptual, and attitudinal. The dimensions of evaluation discussed were function, utilization, and effects. (Author/IRT)

A hearing aid test program was developed, using portable electroacoustic equipment, to assess and improve the condition of hearing aids worn by Cincinnati public school children. The program's results have shown the need for an additional midyear check and subsequent maintenance for school auditory training equipment. (Author)

Part of a graduate program in clinical community psychology was subjected to a jury trial as a form of program evaluation. The theory of the trial as evaluation, the problems of implementation, and a post-trial evaluation are discussed. (Author/MH)