This study examined how 26 teachers in two elementary schools used performance-charted data provided by a technical support agency. Although teachers did not report using the data extensively to make explicit instructional decisions, most teachers reported using the data to verify their own observations about student progress and as a…

Reviews current approaches to evaluation of training both in theory and in practice. Highlights include complexities associated with evaluation practice; possible means of expediting the performance of evaluations; expanding the range and precision of data collection using automated systems; and recommendations for further research. (Author/LRW)

Before schools can tackle the student dropout problem, they need to distinguish school leavers from completers. A year-long pilot project in 31 states will record all students who drop out and their reasons for leaving, using a statistical reporting model developed by the Council of Chief State School Officers. Recommendations and participant…

Examines whether using a combined silent reading-listening mode to administer the "Social Studies Inference Test" optimized information gathering. Finds that the combined modality produced more correct inferences than did silent reading alone. Finds only one gender difference--girls'"caution score" was higher than that for…

A handheld computer observation system was developed using Hewlett-Packard HP71B computers for recording and IBM-PCs for storing and analyzing data. Algorithims used in observing interactions between handicapped children and peers or teachers are described. Also described are behavior definitions, observer training and observation procedures, the…

Suggests ways in which states that are administering a Title IV-E independent-living program may generate program and evaluation data to meet requirements of a federal program report. Presents two examples of current evaluations of independent-living programs. (RJC)

Paper is a sequel to the project reported in article "Through the Glass Darkly? The National Policy on Languages As Seen by Tertiary Language Staff" (Rado and Foster 1990). This article looks at further developments in selected tertiary Languages Other Than English (LOTE) contexts up to July 1994. These developments have been highlighted…

Discusses a collaborative approach to evaluating professional training methods. Describes 4 objectives and 10 steps for "evaluating evaluation" that include identifying the training and evaluation goal, forming an evaluation team, designing the evaluation, developing the methods, collecting data, interpreting findings, and reporting results. (AEF)

Presents activities using thermocouples to investigate the temperatures at which candles burn and popcorn pops. (MKR)

Chronicles an example of using the Internet to teach high school statistics. The project, Ask a Teen, involved a group of students who surveyed and shared cultural data with a group of overseas students. Includes sample survey questions. (MKR)

Outlines an approach to the problem of over- or underquantification for students by teaching science as a process of collecting, organizing, and analyzing data that naturally integrates with mathematics. (MKR)

Reviews past extension reporting systems--Extension Management Information System, Narrative Accomplishments Reporting System, and Program Planning and Reporting System--and the mandates of the new Government Performance and Results Act. Highlights potential conflicts among the information needs and quality indicators of local, state, and federal…

How to generate information that can be used in the evaluation of problem solving by school principals was studied, drawing on a survey of 36 California principals. A proposed conceptual framework was tested in interviews with 30 other principals. Information generated by one principal illustrates problem solving in action. (SLD)

Presents ideas for purposeful statistical investigations based on data from "TV Guide" that involve simulations using a spreadsheet. (MKR)

This paper discusses a case-finding process for identifying all people 55 years and over with an intellectual disability living in 2 regions of Victoria (Australia). Results indicated that, although not all 215 people located were registered with specialist services, they were known to the generic system, suggesting the value of greater…