Purpose: Whilst beneficial, the use of evidence to improve teaching and learning in schools is proving difficult to achieve in practice. The purpose of this paper is to shed new light on this issue by examining the applicability of a model of rational behaviour as relates to the notion of evidence-informed practice (EIP). Specifically, exploring…

This paper is an attempt to help professionals to use technical research literature. Three different methods of using research are identified and the advantages and limitations of each are discussed. Professionals frequently try to apply research directly to practical situations but the most useful method is to apply research indirectly by going…

It is relatively easy to gather data but to disseminate and ensure utilization of that data in a way which will induce meaningful change is not so easy. In exploring the reasons for the apparent resistance to social change, a series of three dissemination activities were organized for school personnel using materials developed on the work…

This paper originated as part of the early phases of internal planning within the National Institute for Education (NIE). A status study was conducted of the existing system of educational research and development (R&D) which (1) provided a framework of information as an initial context for framing policy and (2) examined a major mandate,…

The study of knowledge production and utilization deals with the problems of how to translate theoretical concepts and knowledge into practical solutions to people's problems. Many criticisms have been leveled at aspects of previous information system models, including their linearity, one-way communication paths, overdependence on scientific…

In May of 1970, a 1-week workshop brought together vocational educators, information science experts, and specialists in planned educational change for the purpose of developing models of information systems designed to utilize research and development information in bringing about innovations designed to facilitate vocational-technical education…

This technical report is the companion volume to the 1975 Databook, the purpose of which was the compilation of available data series focused on the organization and functioning of the knowledge production and utilization (KPU) system. This technical report is intended to (1) provide more accurate data sources, (2) analyze existing data sources,…

The effective utilization of research and development products ranks as one of the top priorities in American public education. The document contains two concept papers by recognized authorities on knowledge utilization activities: A Diffusion Mechanism for the Center for Vocational and Technical Education, Egon G. Guba; and Alternative Diffusion…

An information feedback model and an ideology of evaluation are posed and contrasted with experiences in evaluation research. Impact on policy is the criterion for success of an evaluation and political constraints block this impact. Some ways social researchers might conceptualize and construct an appropriate base of power are considered.…

This paper presents two models, one for organizing institutional research and research data, and the other for applying research findings to the decision-making process. The model for organizing research consists of four subsystems: goal-setting, program development, cost-effectiveness, and program review. Each subsystem has a distinctive…

The findings of a study undertaken at the University of Pittsburgh in 1975 to determine the extent of materials use and the full cost of such use in the university library system are presented in this 272-page report. Intended to serve as a foundation for improved acquisitions policies, this report covers circulation and in-house use of…

The state of the art in the implementation of education innovation is assessed in three parts: (1) the identification of promising theories, important issues, and proven implementation strategies with emphasis on practical implications; (2) a review of research directly related to the development and implementation of new occupational education…

The effectiveness with which research findings are disseminated to policy makers in education, particularly at the state level, is explored in the four chapters of this report. In chapter 1, Linda J. Nelson reviews the literature and determines that policy makers do make important, but indirect, use of research. She suggests that research…

A framework is presented that relates concepts of audit reliability to the uses of information gathered from a discrepancy program audit of Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title IV-C programs in Florida. Three issues are addressed: (1) the meaning of reliability in relation to the audit process; (2) the importance of reliability of auditor…

This handbook outlines procedures for evaluating a school guidance program. Defined first are the concept of guidance evaluation and basic terms in guidance evaluation. The purpose of guidance evaluation is discussed. Covered in a description of problems and difficulties in doing guidance evaluation are general problems; problems relating to…