This discussion of the use of computers to help improve written documents and support writing instruction briefly surveys the Writer's Workbench system, a set of programs that provides automated editorial feedback. A rationale for such programs is described and possible instructional uses are explored. Fourteen references are listed. (Author/MER)

Describes low-cost evaluation methods that many educational broadcasting organizations could use to make their programs more effective. Nine references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Distinguishes between the process and products of science and describes the role of each in Instructional Development (ID). The observe, hypothesize, test components of the scientific process are examined as they apply to front-end analysis, instructional strategy description, and formative evaluation stages used in ID models. Thirty-four…

The proposition was investigated that concept learning is a twofold process: acquisition of a prototype and development of generalization and discrimination skills. The assumption that formative evaluation procedures are necessary when attempting to prepare better instructional treatments for improved student performance was tested. (Author/GK)

Evaluation is discussed as an information-gathering process. Currently popular evaluation programs are reviewed in relation to decision making and various approaches that seem to contribute to the decision utility of evaluation (e.g. classical approaches, Bayesian approaches, adaptive designs, and model-based evaluations) are described. (Author/AL)

Discusses observation of teaching behavior (what should be recorded, what methods of recording are available, what is low inference and high inference data) and aspects of teacher evaluation (summative evaluation, formative evaluation and constraints on the evaluative process). (SS)

Significantly higher posttest achievement scores and more favorable unit evaluations were achieved in a secondary social studies unit using a feedback-corrective strategy with a manageable degree of specificity. This supports previous research that suggests the strategy is possible within a social studies area. (SB)

The goals of a series of simulation games devised for a graduate level course in leadership models and strategies were to aid students in understanding the process of change, conflict resolution, bargaining and negotiating skills, motivation and self-awareness techniques, and decision-making strategies. Four references are provided. (MER)

Eight brief research reports concerning a newspaper's conversion to VDTs, media evaluation by police chiefs, defending and indemnifying reporters in tort actions, newsmagazine coverage of the Supreme Court, pricing of advertising in weekly newspapers, the importance of writing, "yeasaying" in readership surveys, and public service utilization by…

The principal has a duty to assess the worth (make a summative evaluation) of the various parts of the organization, including teachers, and the further responsibility for making provision for the formative evaluation of the teaching staff with a view to assisting them in their personal and professional growth. (Author)

To assess how early in the development of content materials for a televised course learner review should occur, data were gathered from adult students who reviewed either the script, scratch track audiotape, or rough cut videotape for a course on Japan. (Author/JEG)

Describes the principles, design, use, and preliminary evaluation of an 11-week in-service course based on an audiovisual format. Preliminary observation indicates a continuing demand by teachers for access to the course, and that it is capable of changing teacher behavior in ways consistent with the course aims. (Author/JEG)

The paper shows how various evaluation information, received through a number of feedback sources was used for revisions made in curriculum materials. The value of the results provided by the various evaluation instruments is discussed as well as how each technique validates the outcomes received from the other techniques and illuminates a…

The article describes the ways in which formative evaluation was used in the development of a hospital's critical care nursing education program during the teaching/learning process, and in improving instruction in the program. Suggestions are made to guide others wishing to utilize formative evaluation effectively. (Author/AJ)

Final of a six part series discusses the idea that the reputation and credibility of training and development is much lower outside the training community than within it. Urges organizational trainers and developers to prove cost effective contributions to their organizations. (LAS)