The rationale followed in the design of procedures for the formative evaluation of an individualized mathematics curriculum. (Editor/MM)

The author describes an assessment model which applies a databased, criterion-referenced formative testing approach to define learning problems, determine teaching strategies, and evaluate progress in learning disabled students. Three case studies illustrate the procedures for implementing the approach. (SB)

The design of a nurse practitioner program evaluation should (1) account for program complexity; (2) allow for judgmental and objective data; (3) provide formative data for decision making; (4) be tailored to the individual program; and (5) be relevant and meaningful to the audience. (SK)

Discusses the prescriptive propositions underlying the analytical approach to instruction, including emphasis on the identification of valid instructional needs, use of content experts, and the accurate classification of instructional objectives in determining effective instructional strategy. (RAO)

Using the Cognitive Research Trust (CoRT) Thinking Project as an illustration, two problems are discussed: the difficulty of deciding just what to investigate, and how to control the continual development that is necessary throughout the duration of a project. (BW)

Critical issues in the process of program evaluation are (1) identification and definition of objectives and outcomes, (2) development of valid and reliable forms of assessment, (3) development of methods of data analysis and interpretation, and (4) extension of the use of evaluation results. (SK)

Exploring a technique for acquiring qualitative data from standardized instruments and using them in formative evaluation of new cirricula, this article discusses assets and limitations of the qualitative analysis technique as applied to a grade 10 science course. (JC)

Presents a two-part instructional materials selection process for public schools, incorporating a field trial phase and based on considerations from the design and formative evaluation of competency-based instruction. A comparison between the materials selection guidelines published by the state of Florida and the paper's own recommendations is…

One of the most neglected aspects of group counseling and group psychotherapy research involves an investigation of the nature and development of the group members' interpersonal perceptions during the life of the group. In this study, an individual differences multidimensional scaling (INDSCAL) approach was used to study this question. (Author)

Presents a follow-up study gauging the reactions of an Open University Course Team to the developmental testing of the broadcast element of their course. Problems in modifying the television component are identified and conditions necessary for the broadcast component to be tested and modified are suggested. (Author/CMV)

The formative/summative evaluation dichotomy suggested by M. Scriven is challenged, and a conceptual typology is presented that crosses improvement and assessment evaluation functions with process and outcome program stages for four basic types of evaluation. This framework accommodates mixed types of evaluations. (SLD)

Desktop multimedia conferencing has important applications in supporting collaborative distance learning. This article presents analyses of learner needs in collaborative distance learning; the effectiveness of different conferencing environments, including desktop multimedia, in meeting learner needs for distributed collaboration; and a formative…

Describes specific formative assessment activities suitable for the mentor-preservice teacher relationship. Discusses informal and formal formative assessment, assessment sources, and vehicles for formative assessment. Argues that formative assessment is foundational throughout the teacher education process. (SR)

Examines implementation of the California Formative Assessment and Support System for Teachers (CFASST) within local California Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment (BTSA) programs using data from six case studies and highlighting how local BTSA program directors thought about and acted to implement CFASST. The study illustrated the essential…

Asserting a discrepancy between the stated aims and actual pedagogic processes of British universities, offers a solution to the problem of student assessment: Taras' (2001) version of student self-assessment which works within the theoretical framework of Sadler's (1989) theory of formative assessment and what is known about student learning. (EV)