The author describes the development of a pet therapy program at a rehabilitation unit of a hospital. She discusses documentation of the success of pet therapy programs, picking out the right pets, responsibilities of caring for the pet, training the pet, patient response, and program policies. (CT)

A conceptual basis for understanding the organization of continuing professional education across profession and type of parent institution is portrayed via three case studies of continuing professional education centers. The case studies reflect three orientations for organizing continuing professional education: a service orientation, an…

The concept of a new family coordinator (someone to orient new families to the local 4-H programs and serve as a contact person for them) is examined. The training of this coordinator, the "New Family Handbook," and benefits of this new system are discussed. (CT)

This article outlines major aspects of the planning of large conferences. These major aspects are a well-planned and well-structured organizational system and a detailed budget. Although conferences sponsored by voluntary associations are emphasized, many of the same principles apply to other types of large conferences. (CT)

Three employee assistance programs designed to combat employee drug abuse are described and evaluated. The author also provides guidelines to consider when designing a substance abuse program: consult all departments that can make a contribution; keep abreast of technical support; and seek outside help if there is no help available within the…

Transcultural training programs can provide several key solutions to some personnel development needs. Such training programs are designed to enable the participants to identify and understand their capabilities for dealing with the new environment of foreign countries. Effective transcultural training programs enhance awareness and adaptation,…

This paper recommends a self-contained instructional system which will produce consistent results. The developmental process of the system is described through steps of performance and concept analysis, criterion testing, the designing of a prototype package and validation testing. (JA)

Presents an overview of advances in technology-based learning aids and how they can affect training. It discusses five modes of computer-aided instruction applications, creating your own programs, and four types of learner responses to anticipate. (CT)

Discusses four major steps taken to develop a culturally and economically viable career education model for programs in Micronesia. The steps described are identifying needs, establishing goals and objectives, identifying available resources, and selecting and adapting relevant models. (CT)

Argues that school personnel should recognize and understand that the staff development process is a series of interrelated phases that should be followed and that these phases occur within the context of a particular social organization. (Author/IRT)

Presents a four-step process for staff members interested in designing their own mastery learning program. (Author/JM)

A summary of "Making INSET Work," a Department of Education and Science report which proposes various format options for the in-service education of teachers (INSET). (SJL)

The article presents a "magic circle" model for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs for gifted, talented, and creative students. (DLS)

Epidemiology is presented as a tool for the primary prevention of a broad range of factors associated with increased rates of communication disorders. The potential use of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model of program planning and evaluation to design comprehensive, community-based prevention programs for communication disorders is discussed. (Author/CR)

A guide to developing a college marketing plan defines key marketing terms, outlines the development of a plan (including institutional analysis, market research, strategy formation and execution, and program evaluation), and provides a list of important principles with which to operate a program. (MSE)