Examines three distinct approaches to developing competency models: the modified task analysis approach, the critical trait approach, and the situational approach. Figures illustrate each model. (CT)

Presents a systematic process for performing an analysis of program failure in adult education, including ways to identify the type of failure and questions designed to determine its cause. (SK)

Summarizes major concepts and approaches of the Evaluation Training Consortium project, showing how they relate to evaluation in the human resources development context. (CT)

Takes a look at some public relations ideas that work well, especially for those institutions operating with a voluntary program. The public relations efforts are aimed at administrators, faculty, students, employers, staff, community, local high schools, and other colleges. (CT)

Considers the objectives, campaign strategy, ideology, and reception of the American Library Association's Enlarged Program to revitalize library services after World War I. Forty references are cited. (FM)

Illustrates how the current summer program contains the same basic components as a 1954 program which included (1) visitation of in-school youth, (2) adult farm activities, (3) Future Farmer group activities, (4) civic activities, (5) professional cooperation, (6) adult demonstrations and meetings, (7) professional improvement, and (8)…

Lists the strengths and weaknesses of small schools and then makes recommendations for capitalizing on their strengths and compensating for their weaknesses. (JM)

There is sufficient evidence from impact studies throughout the field to conclude that continuing education can have an impact on evaluation. The challenge is to increase the proportion of programs that do so and to develop more efficient procedures to assess impact. (CT)

Illustrates the need for process evaluation as part of cost-effectiveness/benefit studies. Identifies reasons for ineffectiveness in three outcomes for cost-effectiveness/ benefit analysis (enrollment, completion, employment), and suggests some general strategies for program improvement. (CT)

States that voluntary children's and family services are being affected by a reduction in government funds and argues for a vigorous response through the maintenance and development of tested, valid programs. (Author/MP)

Reviewing the importance of a general advisory council, this article presents the major ingredients of a successful advisory committee and actions that can be taken to increase the effectiveness of the council or to help teachers having advisory council problems. (LRA)

Examines changes that have occurred in kindergarten education and identifies the goals of a good kindergarten program. Focuses on trends relative to kindergarten programs and raises questions about the values, goals, and inequities of kindergarten programs and about the number of children attending them. Offers recommendations for establishing…

The first step in any planning process should be problem identification. Appropriate planning techniques, starting with formal needs assessments, will help vocational education control its own future. (LRA)

Reviews three roles of the federal government that are accepted as essential tasks of federal leadership: (1) leadership in the process of democratization, (2) employment, and (3) readiness to rely on vocational education in periods of emergency. Suggests improving vocational education by rethinking the federal role. (LRA)

The Minnesota Tech Prep Self-Evaluation System is a framework based on ideas from Deming, Juran, and the Baldridge award. Testing with 17 Minnesota tech prep consortia found it effective in identifying areas needing improvement and promoting dialog among those involved in tech prep implementation. (SK)