Examined evaluation challenges facing the National Child Benefit (NCB) program in Canada. Reviewed the Social Union Framework agreement focusing on the development of the NCB. Findings show the complexity of programs like the NCB. Detecting changes in the program and assisting interpretation of these changes will require detailed administrative…

Provides the conceptual framework for the Treatment Improvement Protocols (TIPs) evaluation project, using the diffusion of innovations theory as the theoretical foundation to understand and assess the development of TIPs. Summarizes principles of diffusion theory, and discusses how the model was used to structure the TIPs studies. (SLD)

Kirkpatrick's highly popular model of training evaluation criteria proposed four ascending, causally related, and positively intercorrelated levels: reactions, learning, behavior, and results. This article examines the validity of the three problematic assumptions of the model, the frequency of each level in published evaluation studies,…

Some of the ways in which a system of program evaluation works to suppress diversity, innovation, and nonconformist approaches in the search for knowledge are discussed. The Ontario experience calls into question the appropriateness of a total system-wide application of the connoisseurship model. (MLW)

A developmental-acquisition model of case management was compared to usual case management services provided for the chronically mentally ill, using a sample of 89 persons referred to a large midwestern mental health center for community support services. The developmental-acquisition model was seemingly successful and deserves further refinement…

Program logic models provide a method of presenting program objectives schematically. This article presents a model that explicitly recognizes the ultimate societal-level benefits and accommodates identification of outputs, performance indicators, and targets. The model is illustrated with a hypothetical agricultural technology transfer program.…

The state-of-the-art in program evaluation and the latest approaches to teacher evaluation are described. A general model for personnel evaluation is presented, and a design is suggested for merging the two. The basic premise is that all educational evaluation rests on the evaluation of student needs. (SLD)

Surveys examples currently used to plan and conduct evaluations, perceiving a shift from rationalistic (logical positivist) to naturalistic (constructionist) evaluation. Presents a model of evaluation planning, implementation, and management incorporating both examples by calling for evaluative data undergirded by descriptive data generated by an…

Y. S. Lincoln and E. G. Guba consider L. Sechrest's comments on their book "Fourth Generation Evaluation" as less a criticism than an attempt to demolish. D. M. Fetterman also objects to much of Sechrest's address. E. J. Posavac generally agrees with conclusions of Welch and Sternhagen. (SLD)

In September 1990, three programs (Family Study Institute, Saturday School Programs, and Evening Programs) to strengthen and improve parent-school partnerships and enhance communication were instituted in a racially integrated school district in Cook County, Illinois. Evaluation findings showed that parental involvement significantly enhanced…

The article presents and illustrates use of an evaluation model for assessing programs for the gifted where tight experimental control is not possible. The model consists of four components: ex post factor designs including intact groups; comparative evaluation; strength of treatment; and multiple outcome assessment from flexible data sources. (DB)

Taking students seriously is the key to the student evaluator model. Aided by an experienced evaluation facilitator, students design and carry out evaluations of specific programs in which they are involved. For a project to succeed, those in charge must place their trust in the students and help create a climate of acceptance for the project. Two…

This article presents a framework for conducting effective evaluations of programs for gifted students, reflecting current best practice. The evaluation framework proceeds through four stages: preparing for the evaluation, designing data collection and analysis, conducting the evaluation, and reporting findings and follow-up. A planning matrix is…

The emphasis in the integrated model of character education on the development of the whole person and interaction with the whole environment requires that character education be seen as a dimension of the total curriculum. It means integrating character education into the academic curriculum, recreational activities, administration, and social…

Describes Dade County (Florida) Public Schools' evaluation of its 1991-92 Professional Orientation Program. Generally, the program's major components were being implemented appropriately. Beginning teachers were favorably impressed with the support teams and the program itself, except for the training videotapes and enrollment paperwork. The…