A modification of Donald Kirkpatrick's model suggests use of a training-impact tree to identify variables that could establish links between training and organizational values. Steps include identifying organizational values and practices; identifying skills, knowledge, and attitudes; defining scope and purpose of evaluation; gathering data; and…

Targeting Outcomes of Programs is a model used to assess volunteer program inputs (resources, activities, participation), outcomes (reactions, changes in knowledge, skills, opinions, aspirations), and impact (practice changes and societal, economic, and environmental impacts). (SK)

Describes the development of program theory evaluation and the various versions of program theory evaluation currently in use. Discusses some of the differences between theory and evaluation practice. Program theory evaluation consists of an explicit theory or model of how a program causes outcomes and an evaluation that is at least partially…

Provides guidance about which links in program theory to study and which theories to use. In choosing the links to study, the first criterion is to choose the links that are most critical to the success of the program. The second criterion is the degree of uncertainty about the linkage. (SLD)

Summarizes interesting aspects of the preceding chapters and the issues and concerns raised related to program theory evaluation. Suggests that evaluators may be fighting a losing battle in their efforts to shore up weak programs through the introduction of program theory evaluation, asserting that the development of strong program theory should…

This study explored the effectiveness of communication training for clergy, working to create an outcomes assessment model for such endeavors. Clergy-participants (N=46) completed an extensive training process designed to increase the transformative quality of their sermon communication. Training outcomes were assessed with a prepost test design,…

This paper presents a brief overview of the changes made during our department level reform (DLR) process (Grant Title: "A Systems Approach for Civil and Environmental Engineering Education: Integrating Systems Thinking, Inquiry-Based Learning and Catamount Community Service-Learning Projects") and some of the effects of these changes on…

This document summarizes evaluation reports from afterschool science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs across the United States and identifies common trends and strengths that afterschool learning brings to STEM education. Like many programs nationwide, several of the programs highlighted in this paper were designed specifically to…

Due to expressed dissatisfaction by both faculty and administrators, this study aimed (1) to provide current data on orientation programs and procedures in Illinois community colleges, and (2) to present an "orientation model" as a guideline for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of faculty orientation programs. (Author/LBH)

Conventionality and contrast provide the pragmatic basis of language use for adults. These principles play a vital role in the process of acquiring a first language as children learn how to interact using language.

Professional development that improves teaching and student learning meets research-based standards to ensure high-quality educator learning experiences. Since the quality of professional learning affects its results, many states, districts, and schools want to measure the effectiveness of their professional development to make targeted…

Purposes, strategies, and history of evaluation of the Maryland Teacher Education Center are presented. The original purposes are classified in three categories: Process, Organization, and Outcomes. The evaluation design is discussed as to basic questions and emerging conceptual frameworks. (DB)

A responsive model of evaluation was used for program evaluation in a French-speaking university. Two objectives were addressed: determining the local utility of the program being assessed and identifying the advantages and limits of the model and comparing them to those reported in the literature. (RB)

A model for designing gifted program evaluation is offered along with discussion of seven realities: (1) terms and concepts, (2) funding implications, (3) goals and image, (4) policy implications, (5) statistical and philosophical problems, (6) the role of teacher educators, and (7) impact on other programs. (CL)

A comparison of eight major generalized evaluation models is provided, enabling the educator to choose which is most appropriate for his specific program. (RW)