Evaluation is discussed as an information-gathering process. Currently popular evaluation programs are reviewed in relation to decision making and various approaches that seem to contribute to the decision utility of evaluation (e.g. classical approaches, Bayesian approaches, adaptive designs, and model-based evaluations) are described. (Author/AL)

Discusses observation of teaching behavior (what should be recorded, what methods of recording are available, what is low inference and high inference data) and aspects of teacher evaluation (summative evaluation, formative evaluation and constraints on the evaluative process). (SS)

Significantly higher posttest achievement scores and more favorable unit evaluations were achieved in a secondary social studies unit using a feedback-corrective strategy with a manageable degree of specificity. This supports previous research that suggests the strategy is possible within a social studies area. (SB)

The goals of a series of simulation games devised for a graduate level course in leadership models and strategies were to aid students in understanding the process of change, conflict resolution, bargaining and negotiating skills, motivation and self-awareness techniques, and decision-making strategies. Four references are provided. (MER)

Eight brief research reports concerning a newspaper's conversion to VDTs, media evaluation by police chiefs, defending and indemnifying reporters in tort actions, newsmagazine coverage of the Supreme Court, pricing of advertising in weekly newspapers, the importance of writing, "yeasaying" in readership surveys, and public service utilization by…

The principal has a duty to assess the worth (make a summative evaluation) of the various parts of the organization, including teachers, and the further responsibility for making provision for the formative evaluation of the teaching staff with a view to assisting them in their personal and professional growth. (Author)

To assess how early in the development of content materials for a televised course learner review should occur, data were gathered from adult students who reviewed either the script, scratch track audiotape, or rough cut videotape for a course on Japan. (Author/JEG)

Describes the principles, design, use, and preliminary evaluation of an 11-week in-service course based on an audiovisual format. Preliminary observation indicates a continuing demand by teachers for access to the course, and that it is capable of changing teacher behavior in ways consistent with the course aims. (Author/JEG)

The paper shows how various evaluation information, received through a number of feedback sources was used for revisions made in curriculum materials. The value of the results provided by the various evaluation instruments is discussed as well as how each technique validates the outcomes received from the other techniques and illuminates a…

The article describes the ways in which formative evaluation was used in the development of a hospital's critical care nursing education program during the teaching/learning process, and in improving instruction in the program. Suggestions are made to guide others wishing to utilize formative evaluation effectively. (Author/AJ)

Final of a six part series discusses the idea that the reputation and credibility of training and development is much lower outside the training community than within it. Urges organizational trainers and developers to prove cost effective contributions to their organizations. (LAS)

Describes a study of pre-clinical students (N=91) that explored their reactions to formative assessment. Results indicate that the majority of the students reacted positively to the assessment, explaining that it enabled them to self- evaluate. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Argues that process evaluation is needed to validate prison-based substance abuse treatment effectiveness. Five groups--inmates, treatment staff, prison staff, prison administration, and the parole board--should be a part of this process evaluation. Discusses these five groups relative to three stages of development of substance abuse treatment in…

Discusses the paucity of useful evaluation measures that administrators making decisions about selective college admissions have to work with. Argues that the implementation of national testing would allow for more formative assessment of college applicants and would encourage increased classroom instruction with a formative focus at the secondary…

Presents brief annotations of 20 books and journal articles (published between 1967 and 1997) identified by the contributors to this themed issue as useful for the work they present in this issue. (SR)