Mental models are one way that humans represent knowledge (Markman, 1999). Instructional design (ID) is a conceptual model for developing instruction and typically includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (i.e., ADDIE model). ID, however, has been viewed differently by practicing teachers and instructional designers…

This paper discusses results from an evaluation of the UK-based Communities that Care programme. This "risk and protective" programme was set up in 1997 by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation with a central aim of exploring if such an approach could be successful in the UK context. Communities that Care puts into operation the "risk…

In 2004, the Wake County Public School System (North Carolina) received $1.3 million as one of 237 national winners of the $70 million federal Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) Grant competition. The PEP Grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and provides monies to school districts able to demonstrate the…

Authors examined the logic (or the implicit theory) underlying 16 abstinence-only-until-marriage programs in Texas (50% of all programs funded under the federal welfare reform legislation during 2001 and 2002). Defined as a set of propositions regarding the relationship between program activities and their intended outcomes, program staff's…

A model of service delivery called Wraparound, which was developed in the USA, focuses on maximising collaboration between stakeholders, including the client and their support network, as well as services involved. It is used extensively in the disability, mental health, juvenile justice, education and out-of-home care fields across North America.…

A model of evaluation planning, implementation, and management is presented that includes: (1) a management information system (MIS) to provide a description of the size and scope of adult literacy and post-literacy programs (ALPPs); (2) naturalistic evaluation to provide insight into the meanings of ALPPs as experienced by participants; and (3)…

There has been much literature on the effectiveness of program evaluation. Many feel evaluation has lost its justification; others are more optimistic and feel evaluation can make a difference if the use levels are viewed realistically. Administrators must not regard program evaluation as merely complying with various agency requirements or…

The implementation of this model would assess specific performance tasks, working traits, and socioeconomic traits of the students who complete the occupational program in order to provide both empirical and judgmental data about specific portions of the curriculum. (Author/NHM)

The authors present an overview of recent developments and ultimate goals in quality of care assessment, with special reference to the nurse practitioner. A proposed evaluation model is included. (Author)

Microteaching is designed 'to develop new teaching skills and refine old ones'. Does it work? (Editor)

A description is given of an evaluation method which may be used as a tool in the comprehensive evaluation of preservice teacher education field experience programs. The "Parallel Pairs" construct is a theoretical model, empty of content, which can be used for a variety of purposes. This blank format, to be filled with field experience…

A study evaluated the higher order thinking skills model developed at the Mid-continent Regional Educational Laboratory. A primary thesis of the thinking skills model is that the majority of the cognitive skills considered relevant to academic success can be categorized into three distinct groups: (1) learning-to-learn skills, (2) content thinking…

This chapter considers the history of instructional development (ID) in the military, with particular emphasis on the U.S. Navy. The ID process used at the Navy's Instructional Program Development Centers is presented, including the process for simulator development. An in-depth analysis of the problems encountered with educational technology…

The report summarizes evaluation findings on the Learning Centre, a research and demonstration centre of the Calgary Society for Students with Learning Difficulties. The report addresses evaluation of formal research projects (on such topics as instrumental enrichment with low achieving adolescents); pilot projects (such as an animation film…

The Preschool Learning Development Program (PLD) in Long Valley, New Jersey, was designed to identify preschoolers with developmental handicaps and provide them with systematic, individualized, instructional intervention to enhance developmental rate prior to entry into public school. The PLD Program consisted of three components: candidate…