A regression discontinuity design was used to assess the impact of a remedial education program, comparing credit course grades of students previously enrolled in remedial programs with those not previously enrolled. Results showed the remedial programs were not improving performance beyond expectation based on high school grades. (MSE)

Summarizes and synthesizes five studies using evaluations of their Outward Bound or adaptive programs for delinquency intervention. (ERB)

Stakeholder-based studies modify the relationship between evaluator and user, producing conflict that can cause evaluators to regress to familiar, traditional patterns that leave interactive evaluation strategies only partially implemented. (Author/PN)

The use of philosophic methods, especially concept analysis, in evaluation is explored through a retrospective study of a school district reading evaluation. The application of philosophic techniques in the design, conduct, and review of local district evaluations is assessed. (Author/AL)

Shows that adult education objectives must be evaluative propositions rather than descriptive propositions; as evaluative propositions they cannot be used as "evidence" to defend the cancellation or repetition of programs. Presents a possible solution to the "is-ought-is" dichotomy as it relates to the use of evaluative…

The design and conduct of a national evaluation study is discussed, demonstrating that a control group may not provide the no-cause baseline information expected. Resolution of this problem requires reexamination of paradigms, research practices, and policies, as well as the underlying real world constraints and views that generate them. (PN)

The dilemma inherent in formal standards results from the tension between maintaining quality control and constraining creativity. This dilemma is nowhere more apparent than in matters of method: measurement, sampling, research design, and statistical analysis. The author offers suggestions for revision of the standards to allow for specific…

The rupture between evaluation and action is seen as a failure to take a systems view of the situation. Both the organization and the proposed evaluation program must be understood as interactive systems, which mesh with, rather than oppose, each other if they are appropriately designed and implemented. (MLW)

When evaluating the effectiveness of an educational program, multiple matrix sampling is particularly effective and efficient when the goal of the evaluation is estimating group (as opposed to individual) performance. The technique is described in some detail, with its advantages and disadvantages, and examples of its application are given.…

The design of a nurse practitioner program evaluation should (1) account for program complexity; (2) allow for judgmental and objective data; (3) provide formative data for decision making; (4) be tailored to the individual program; and (5) be relevant and meaningful to the audience. (SK)

Surveyed counselors to determine their training and perceived competence in program evaluation skills. While most mental health counselors were well-versed in research and statistical procedures, many believed they were inadequately prepared in program evaluation methods. Suggests these skills have to be learned on the job. (JAC)

Shows how evaluation design and federal involvement in Youth Employment Demonstration Projects unintentionally cause a negative appraisal. Indicates the problem stems from interaction of the contract research corporation, the educational research establishment, and the federal bureaucracy, rather than a specific methodology or bureaucratic…

Evaluated effects of pretesting in conjunction with a group social skills training program. A Solomon four-groups design was used to evaluate the effects of pretesting, the skills training program, and their interaction. Strong evidence of pretesting effects was found for measures associated with a behavioral forced interaction task. (Author)

Skillfully interviewing students can elicit useful information about the quality of the educational program. (JM)

The collaborative effort between university researchers and a CETA sponsor aimed at "knowledge development" in employment and training services for disadvantaged out-of-school youth is described. Discussion is included concerning the feasibility of experimental evaluation for youth employment programs in a local setting. (Author/GK)