The author investigated the existence of critical success factors for computer technology projects. Current research literature and a survey of experienced project managers indicate that there are 23 critical success factors (CSFs) that correlate with project success. The survey gathered an assessment of project success and the degree to which…

In this article, I outline three structured protocols that professional development school steering committees and other collaborative groups could use to support an intentional reflective process aimed at growth and improvement. Using these protocols provides all participants with a voice in identifying current strengths and areas for growth,…

In this article we present results from a study investigating the impact of three state exit exam systems on teaching and learning in college-preparatory schools. The study compares one state with a traditionally more centralized exam regime, one state that is more de-centralized and one state that has recently switched to more centralized…

The Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE), a unit within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), is responsible for advising the Assistant Secretary for Children and Families on increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of programs to improve the economic and social well-being of children and families. In collaboration…

In determining a vocational program's effectiveness through a follow-up study, attention should be given to: (1) gathering data on comparison groups, (2) specifying the degree of relatedness between vocational training and employment, and (3) obtaining feedback from the employer. (Author/BP)

Ten steps, generally following the scientific method, are identified and explained to assist the performance of a cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) study. Benefit-cost analysis (BCA) is compared to CEA, and implications of using CEA are discussed. (Author/LMO)

The Council for Advancement and Support of Education has adopted standards to guide colleges and universities in defining the purpose and length of fund-raising campaigns and in counting gifts. Debate over the standards has focused on the reporting of deferred gifts, government money, bequests, and other specific types of gifts. (MSE)

This manual is designed to help rural Chapter 1 program staff effectively run their programs. Upon reviewing the history of the Chapter 1 legislation and program, the document stresses program design, evaluation, and improvement as three easy ways to understanding the Chapter 1 program. Program design should determine the district eligibility for…

This Head Start On-Site Program Review Instrument (OSPRI) is used to monitor and evaluate Head Start Programs to verify basic compliance with program standards. OSPRI contains Head Start Performance Standards, Performance Standards on Services to Children with Disabilities, and specific program regulations in the areas of recruitment,…

This document provides information about the development of a quality control procedure that adds a new capability to program management. The procedure, the Standardized Educational Program Audit (SEPA), is being developed by the Florida Department of Education for use with Elementary Secondary Education Act Title III development projects. This…

This booklet for pupil personnel services (PPS) professionals describes five selected exemplary PPS district programs in Illinois (Bloomington District 87, Dundee Community Unit School District 300, Lake Park Community School District 108, Lyons Township High School District 204, and Warren Township High School District 121) as well as the…

The development of a plan for language teaching evaluation and the first steps taken to implement it are reported. The plan, developed as a result of efforts to assist the Defense Language Institute in program evaluation, involves direct observation of language instruction in progress. Outside observers would assess the degree to which course…

The key to success in Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training (JOBS) programs is a philosophy of high expectations. The philosophy accommodates both client and societal concerns. Highlights of the philosophy include the following: respecting the client's goals; giving nonjudgmental acceptance, constant encouragement, and emotional support;…

This paper identifies and describes techniques that states may use to evaluate the three components of their programs funded under Section 353 of the Adult Education Act: (1) state administration; (2) special projects and staff training programs; and (3) effects or impacts of projects on local programs and instructors. Evaluation of these…

This report is an evaluation of the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) done by an external advisory panel. Panelists were selected in terms of availability and complementary skills. The program was evaluated by the Shepard method which consists of a checklist grouped into the areas of goals and purposes, technical aspects, management,…