Based on a review of research on evaluation use, the implications for future research and for improving the practice of evaluation are discussed. Six principles of evaluation use are outlined, and internalization of evaluation functions by decision makers is addressed. (TJH)

Describes a formative evaluation proposal submitted to the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) in the United Kingdom to explore the potential impact of the Information Technology in Education Research (InTer) Program. The philosophies of evaluation and of the evaluator role are discussed, and aims and methodology of the evaluation are…

A combination of methods--portfolios, direct observation, assessment centers, and better tests--can compensate for one another's shortcomings and reflect the richness and complexity of teaching. (Author/TE)

Three consumer groups--physicians, hospital administrators, and patients--that would benefit most from evaluation of health care are described. Problems each group has in understanding and supporting the use of evaluation in the delivery of health care services are discussed. Strategies to improve acceptance of evaluation are presented. (SLD)

Discusses strategies designed to increase the instrumental use of program evaluation findings based on experiences in Australian schools. Highlights include an evaluation plan; awareness of the evaluation; timely reporting techniques; guidelines for implementation of findings; and the role of the evaluator as change agent. (Contains 21…

This theme issue discusses the misuse of evaluation. The eight articles all discuss instances in which the evaluation process or evaluation findings were misused. Misuse is usually not the result of methodological issues but rather is an issue of human relations and sometimes of political pressure. (SLD)

Current conceptualizations of participatory evaluation are reviewed, presenting some definitions, various rationales for its use, and a general discussion with implications for future applications. Participatory evaluation creates a learning framework in which evaluation findings are processed and accumulated by end-users in the very process of…

A participatory model in evaluation is presented as an extension of the stakeholder-based model focusing on the increased participation of primary users. Twenty-six empirical studies that support an organizational learning justification of the model are reviewed and classified. Requirements for participatory evaluation are discussed. (SLD)

The role of evaluation in electric utility demand-side management (DSM) programs is explored, including the importance of evaluation in determining financial incentives that a company will earn for DSM programs. A hypothetical example is presented of the types of problems that might arise when evaluations are subject to litigation. (SLD)

Reviews synthesis as an important task of evaluation, putting evidence together for a coherent assessment. Types of synthesis are described from the case of two variables to more complex situations, ending with metanalysis. Syntheses help identify common patterns and regularities and can help progress toward positive social change. (SLD)

Describes use of the Knowledge Use System, originally developed as a tool for corporate market research to overcome obstacles to implementation, in a higher education setting to delineate decision-maker variables and characteristics that may impede the utilization of evaluation results. Implications for future research and for higher education are…

Discussion of performance evaluations for administrators focuses on evaluations for library directors. The frequency of evaluations is discussed; reasons to evaluate are described, including identifying areas where improvement is needed and to assist in personal and professional development; evaluation committees are explained; and suggestions for…

Argues that there are insuperable problems in assessing subjective indicators of quality of life and that this approach should be abandoned. Also notes this approach may serve to extend the license of services to exert control over all facets of a person's life. (Author/CR)

Discusses the purpose of alternative assessment in language arts classes in the middle school setting. Notes how alternative assessments encourage higher order thinking skills, provide an alternative to failure, encourage students to experiment, and keep teachers interested. Provides directions and scoring guides for examples of alternative…

Examined the politics of principal evaluation through a review of the literature and in-depth interviews with 14 principals and 6 superintendents. Findings show that the format and processes used in principal evaluation often vary from one district to another and that principals and superintendents frequently hold different perspectives on the…