This report describes the adult student's experience with prior learning assessment (PLA) using student record data from 72 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the United States, primarily focusing on the data from 69 of those institutions based on the more detailed data provided by those institutions to the study. Researchers from the…

This report describes the adult student's experience with prior learning assessment (PLA) using student record data from 72 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the United States, primarily focusing on the data from 69 of those institutions based on the more detailed data provided by those institutions to the study. Researchers from the…

Providing post-secondary education in correctional settings has emerged as one of the best ways to reduce recidivism, save taxpayer dollars, and promote post release employment and community reintegration. While a number of studies exist, this paper argues persistent challenges connected to research design, data collection, and the communication…

This paper reviews the question of the cost and benefits of data for the analysis of state policy questions, and concludes that in the abstract the question cannot be answered; rather, it must be considered on a continuing basis whenever data is to be collected in the support of baseline studies or special projects. The paper suggests six criteria…

While anecdotal information is available concerning the effectiveness of the Transfer: Making It Happen program, CPEC (California Postsecondary Education Commission) finds that insufficient quantitative fiscal and outcome information is available to assess the program. CPEC is unable to determine the success and effectiveness of this program and…

Program Effectiveness and Related Costs (PERC), a comprehensive data management plan developed at Empire State College, is the subject of this explanatory report. Chapter 1 presents the conceptual framework of the program which incorporates data on outcomes, costs, programs, students, and faculty, and also incorporates a "multiple perspectives…

Specifications for the types of information necessary for the evaluation of nontraditional college programs involve: content, respondent groups, schedule for data collection, possible instruments and forms of response, and presentation of the information to different groups. One important issue is the need for more precise definitions of…

A study assessed the feasibility of conducting a national cost-benefit analysis of vocational education and presented recommendations for future research on the relationship between vocational education costs and benefits. Following an analysis of the state of the art in utilizing cost-benefit methodologies to evaluate vocational education, a…

A study reviewed the measurement problems that would confront a study team performing a national cost-benefit analysis of vocational education and presented alternative strategies to overcome these measurement problems and to provide input into assessing the feasibility of conducting a national cost-benefit study. To meet these objectives,…

One of a three-volume series concerning the development and testing of a model for determining the costs of vocational education programs and courses, this user's manual presents an overall conceptualization of the model and briefly describes each dimension. The data elements, organized into data collection instruments and recommended procedures,…

A study was conducted to design a set of procedures for complying with the federal mandate for an employer followup of vocational education students. Procedures, designed on the basis of existing literature and federal guidelines, were pilot tested in two ways--one local-program based, the other local-program and state-agency based. The two…

A study examined the feasibility of performing a national cost-benefit analysis of secondary, postsecondary, and adult vocational education. The study involved three components: a survey of the state of the art of utilizing cost-benefit methodologies to evaluate the returns on investments in vocational education; an overview of the potential…

This report examines the state of the art of utilizing cost-benefit methodologies to evaluate the returns on investments in vocational education. The objectives and format of the report and the literature search methodology employed in it are outlined. Presented next is an overview of the diverse literature related to cost-benefit analysis,…

Designed for use by institutions at the postsecondary level, this program evaluation package contains instructions for planning and implementing an evaluation program, instruments for obtaining information from key sources, and procedures for their use. Covered in the individual chapters are the following topics: an overview of evaluation…

Florida's apprenticeship program was reviewed to assess its benefits and ability to meet state demands. The review was based on an analysis of the apprenticeship program's enrollment, costs, and course offerings and information about the employment and earning outcomes of program graduates. The review established that Florida's apprenticeship…