Recent methodological advances are described that enable the analyst to extract additional information from the data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology, including goal programming to develop cross-efficiencies, cluster analysis, analysis of variance, and pooled cross section time-series analysis. Some shortcomings of DEA are discussed. (LMO)

This article explains the Selection System Model for evaluating alternative educational delivery methods and relates research findings applicable to the various components of the model. Those components include Instructional Strategies, Student Access, Complexity of the Method for the Student, Complexity of the Method for the Provider, and…

The author identifies and describes eight issues relevant to retirement preparation programs that can be used for program planning or setting criteria for program selection. (CH)

Describes the human resources department at West Virginia University. Discusses the training needs assessment project, formation of an advisory committee, targets for training, budget restrictions, department faculty and staff, faculty attitudes about the program, training sites, use of video-based simulation, and how the program is currently…

Nine reasons that training programs do not succeed (for example, limited training resources, reasons for training unclear, critical nontraining factors ignored, management support is lacking, role of supervisor not recognized, little preparation or followup) and five training success factors (value, focus, power, mass, duration) are presented. (CT)

In attempt to answer the question of how to measure or evaluate the quality of reference service to youth, this essay examines the literature; defines the terms (reference services and tools, parental concern, library instruction); discusses move toward quality evaluation; and provides options and approaches to such measurement. (EJS)

Explains a three-dimensional conceptual model designed to help outdoor educators plan and evaluate programs that provide primary and reflective experiences in, about, and for the outdoors and that bring about positive growth in the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains of learning. (JHZ)

A developmental perspective on supervising evaluation practicum students suggests that students go through developmental stages as they enhance their evaluation skills. A three-stage model adapted from counseling training theory developmental perspective is illustrated for eight developmental tasks: competence, emotional awareness, autonomy,…

Describes results of a system rating study in which users responded to WPS (word processing software) questions. Study objectives were data collection and evaluation of variables; statistical quantification of WPS's contribution (along with other variables) to user satisfaction; design of an expert system to evaluate WPS; and database update and…

This article reviews and analyzes the literature from 1980 through 1983 dealing with summative evaluation of training and development efforts in industry and business. An analysis is made to determine to what extent evaluation process components used by professional program evaluators are addressed by each of the articles reviewed. (CT)

Two main themes are found in the previous critiques (TM 510 180, TM 510 181, and TM 510 182) of the Tellado evaluation (TM 510 179): that Tellado lacked a clear audience for his evaluation and that he lacked an appropriate change orientation. A major problem with utilization-focused and stakeholder-based approaches to evaluation is revealed.…

Two case studies provide examples of citizen and program participant involvement in program evaluation. The Reflective Appraisal of Programs at Cornell Cooperative Extension involves volunteer interviewers of participants; the Lancaster County (Pennsylvania) Office of Mental Health/Mental Retardation is reviewed by a volunteer citizens' committee.…

Federal evaluations in education contributed in numerous and important ways to changes in law, regulation, and management. Information about implementation contributed most often, but information about outcomes, cost, and federal administration also made contributions. These findings differ from previous research that concluded evaluations do not…

Presents a format for the assessment, evaluation, and comparison of the impact of encounter groups, illustrated by an evaluation of an encounter group of six students. The assessment procedure indicated desirable changes along several dimensions, but beneficial effects were not extensive. Emphasized the need for multimethod assessment. (JAC)

This inventory is a reliable and valid staff development assessment instrument designed to measure the degree to which a school's professional development programs adheres to NSDC's Standards for Staff Development. This print version is meant to be completed by teachers and other school staff members. Sold in sets of 50 assessment inventories and…