An evaluation report, an article discussing the importance of evaluation, and a program evaluation budget needs assessment were used in a variety of combinations for three studies. Providing "importance" information along with the evaluation report had a positive impact on evaluation audience satisfaction. (Author/RL)

This article reports on how short scales can be used to assess the perceived risks that exist for decision makers, their perception of the decision context and their perceived information needs. Three scales are described: (1) a Decision Risk Scale; (2) a Decision Context Inventory; and (3) a Need for Information Inventory. (JAZ)

This study investigated information needs and use by groups in decision-making processes. Problem contexts were varied by conflict, quality, and time conditions and presented to 89 graduate level education students who simulated school board members making decisions about educational programs. The research hypotheses were: (1) there are no…

This investigation examined the effect contextual variables had on a national sample of school board members' information needs for decision making. Importance, conflict, and content were found to be associated with board members' needs for time, information, and consultation. (Author/LMO)

School board members from a national sample read specially designed evaluation vignettes and responded to questions about informatyon needs and resources. Information needs and decision-making processes were found to vary depending upon such factors as importance of the decision, amount of conflict present, presence/absence of superintendent…

Graduate students simulated school board members making decisions about educational programs. Situation contexts within the program evaluation reports were varied by conflict, quality, and time. The quality of decisions affected support for program continuation. Interactions of conflict and quality affected need for more information and more time…