Examines benefits of three models for evaluating outdoor adventure programs: program monitoring with debriefings and check-offs; experimental evaluation; and qualitative, naturalistic observation. Illustrates and compares approaches using California 4-H adventure ropes course. Examines data's specificity, assumptions, ambiguities, and followup.…

Continuing the interchange of ideas about evaluation methodology, the authors argue the advisability of using the entire array of methods to produce useful and persuasive findings. There is, ultimately, a truth to be sought, but no one approach has a monopoly on finding it. (SLD)

Teachers (n=109) from a Texas school district participated in a study of teachers' perceptions of a postobservation evaluation conference with respect to the purpose, process, environment, and factors influencing the conference. Teachers also made recommendations for keeping the postobservation conference meaningful and constructive. Responses…

Describes the development of the VV-BOS (Visualizer/Verbalizer Behavior Observation Scale), a computer-based instrument for direct observation of students' preferences for visual or verbal learning material. Results of a study with second-language learners indicated a high degree of reliability as an alternative to conventional questionnaires.…

Administrators' classroom observations should be supplemented by more thorough evaluation techniques. This article describes a simple device for measuring teachers' progress toward completing instructional goals based on electronically submitted lesson plans. Repeated low "turn" rates may signify the need for extra classroom resources or problems…

Describes the advantages in having children develop their own art rather than downloading images or clip art from computers or the Internet. Topics include developing art skills; learning through creating; self-expression; self-confidence gains; observation skills; and creativity and problem solving. (LRW)

Examined the relationship between primary teachers' implementation of developmentally appropriate and traditional teaching methods and the mathematics achievement of general and special education students. Found that mathematics achievement was associated with a reported measure of instruction that emphasized mathematical processing and strategy…

Compares the service learning experience of college students to the traditional social science technique of participant observation. Suggests that service learning allows students to test theories through personal observation in a service setting and experience the logic and practice of social research. Uses examples from the Xavier University…

Observing administrators should watch and listen to both teachers and students, noting use of the target language by both groups, prevalence of student-centered activities, instructional strategies that encourage language learning and accommodate varied learning styles, well-integrated lesson plans, and presence of a comfortable classroom climate.…

Examines correspondence between teacher ratings and direct observations of 217 kindergartners. Observations of classroom behavior showed that Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-combined type children exhibited comparable inattention compared to ADHD-predominantly inattention type children. The former rated higher on…

This naturalistic study examined the role of nonverbal communication in the academic library. The decision to approach or not approach a reference librarian was studied through the use of Mehrabian's immediacy metaphor, and it was hypothesized that the nonverbal behavior of the librarian is related to the user's decision. Contains 53 references.…

Offers observational tools that physical education teachers can use to gather objective data on their teaching for the purpose of reflection. The tools are based on complex research tools associated with effective teaching. The three types of observational tools focus on student behaviors, teacher behaviors, and teacher-student interactions. (SM)

Introduces the peanut observation activity to teach about the pros and cons of dissection. As an inquiry-based approach, dissection is one way to teach process skills. Lists the progression of the activity as observation, questioning and finding the answer, challenge, discussion, and further examination. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Researchers examined Hong Kong teachers' and principals' perceptions of using classroom observation for faculty development and evaluation. Surveys indicated that the current practice was mainly for evaluation. Elementary teachers were least likely to welcome observers. All respondents wished for a model of peer observation and coaching. More…

An observational study of families watching television was conducted in six households, using a video camera. Results show that family members were absent for substantial proportions of the time the television set was in operation, and when present, for most of the time did not pay full attention. Thirteen tables depict information. (AEF)