Bias in mass communication can be defined as interpretation based on factors that are independent of the original information, or as shaping the meaning of information according to the context in which it is placed. Although research has explored the concept of bias from a number of perspectives, its subtle manifestations can be understood best by…

A communication model suggests that in almost all cases where dissemination and utilization of knowledge has taken place, one or more of seven general factors can be identified as having been active in aiding the phenomena. The proposed factors are: linkage, structure, capacity, openess, reward, proximity, and synergy. In order to use this model…

This paper is a synopsis of a study of information needs in education undertaken to identify patterns that imply user requirements for effective information services. The findings of the study show that the educational information user market can be readily segmented by work roles (teachers, higher education faculty, state school board members,…

An emphasis on existentialism as a dynamic philosophical force with significant implications for vocational guidance in the use of information to help clients, followed by a Comment by Lee Isaacson. (Author)

Based on information gathered from over 100 Administration on Aging-supported research, this report documents some of the products and uses of research sponsored by the Administration on Aging and supported with funds provided under Title IV-B of the Older Americans Act. Following an introductory sketch of its products, uses and users, statistics…

One of a series of instructional booklets designed to introduce adult education program planners to the basic concepts integral to and alternative strategies for conducting needs assessments, this instructional booklet deals with determining how to summarize information. Described first is the relationship of the process of determining how to…

A study was conducted in Great Britain to review the means by which teachers of Further and Higher Education (FE/HE) keep in touch with (1) developments in their course area; (2) experimentation and innovation in curriculum design; (3) alternative teaching approaches; (4) learning resources; and (5) other sources of professional information.…

The "baby" in the title of this paper refers to local school boards. The author suggests giving school boards more authority to exercise control over schools. In June of each year, the superintendent should present to the Board a report summarizing objective evidence on the achievements in learning of the pupils in the schools. Near the end of the…

A "communication system" paradigm for dissemination of appropriate knowledge, information, and technology needed for effective rural development is briefly described. The paradigm describes six categories of interrelated functions, activities, and processes: (1) scientific knowledge production by carrying out basic and applied research; (2)…

A setting is described in which an evaluation was used with significant impacts on policies and programs. Some of those impacts are delineated, types of utilization employed by staff within the system are illustrated, and conditions under which the evaluation was conducted to obtain such a high level of use are discussed. In the 1979-80 school…

This qualitative evaluation study described how instructional computing can be better used by a Texas intermediate education service agency. Open-ended questions were asked of the Education Service Center Staff. Products included identifying services available across the Center and compiling 60 suggested computer uses. The major finding was poor…

This booklet is for people who are involved in community affairs, either as direct participants, group facilitators, or agency sponsors. The booklet discusses the reasons for considering a community survey and provides tips on how to prepare for a survey. Groups that have decided to write and conduct their own survey have the following major…

Suggestions for broadening the utilization of evaluation research findings are discussed. Major program changes, based on evaluation, may not become obvious for several years; program actions may contradict findings and still be based on rational decision making processes; evaluation findings may have far-reaching effects which were not recognized…

An evaluator-manager interaction model is developed for predicting the impact of evaluation and research findings. Instruments are developed for measuring the variables of interpersonal involvement, impact of evaluation, and managerial style in the relationship between evaluator and manager. The hypothesis advanced suggests that evaluators can…

The results of the experience of a Technical Assistance Center (TAC) for three months with a system for classifying and recording actual and planned tasks and activities are described and discussed. The area covered by this report includes 15 states in 3 geographic regions. Staff days planned and actually spent and trips planned and spent are…