Three major stages are outlined for conducting evaluations of nontraditional programs: the preoperational stage, the implementation stage, and the post-operational stage. Utilization of the model in evaluating the Master of Liberal Studies Program at the University of Maine is described. (Author/MLW)

Compares qualitative and quantitative research in developmental program evaluation. Reports on a small-scale, field study evaluating the academic self-esteem of students in an academic skills program. Concludes that the exploratory and indicative nature of qualitative research can provide information on students' affective development and enhance…

Utilization should be defined according to the evaluation approach used and the purposes established for it. By developing a matrix that includes the dimensions of utilization and the various evaluation approaches, it is possible to plan and conduct evaluations that increase the likelihood of the desired type of utilization. (Author/LC)

Formative and summative evaluation in nonschool settings are discussed, and six elements for effective use of a program evaluation system in diverse educational settings are outlined. (FG)

Describes some of the salient issues and how they were dealt with during the development and delivery of a multilevel evaluation of a large human relations training program in a federal agency. Nine references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Describes two contrasting types of efforts (for individual programs and for classes of programs) used by the U.S. Office of Education to evaluate the effectiveness of bilingual education, and the sharply contrasting results. (Journal availability: National Dissemination and Assessment Center, California State University, 5151 State University…

An evaluation methodology based on problem-solving techniques which can be effective and efficient in defining and analyzing problems which impair program performance is described. The model provides a potentially unique cost/benefit methodology for estimating the potential worth of improving program performance. (Author/RL)

Outlines for the beginning group counselor a method for organizing and evaluating the ongoing group experience. Defines the specific categories and describes the method by which the outline can be used. (RC)

This paper describes eight problems faced by a school district evaluator in evaluating state-funded, compensatory education programs: determining evaluation ownership, determining the major constraints, determining what to evaluate, determining what methods to use, determining participant characteristics, determining instrumentation, determining…

Evaluation design decisions for a child care provider training program are discussed as a function of three characteristics: decentralization, local autonomy and multiple delivery strategies. While decentralized process data were gathered, only centralized outcome data were collected. The design decisions made were appropriate for such diverse…

Practical suggestions to an evaluator are presented. It is seen as essential that an evaluator who would influence decision making through research realize that the research in which he engages, the data collected, and the analysis and interpretation are influenced by the values of the institution that the evaluator serves. (MLW)

Evaluation systems aimed primarily at helping administrators and faculty in the governance and administration of institutions (for improvement in curriculum, services, or research or reallocation of resources) are discussed. A formal evaluation system involves the establishment, maintenance, and operation of an information system. (MLW)

This article delineates certain concepts aimed at improving the process of program evaluation in bilingual education. Educationally defensible and politically-free approaches to such evaluation are recommended. (Author/AL)

Which method of instruction is more effective for postsecondary students: competency-based or traditional? This study reveals that the effectiveness of one method over the other depends on work experience of the student. (Author)

Describes the rationale, structure, and operation of a new evaluation procedure in which pro and con presentations are made to a hearing panel that recommends action on the question posed. Suggestions are made for further improvement and development of this new procedure. (Author)