To offset federal subsidy cutbacks, climbing food costs, and increasing wage demands, a Missouri school district hired a food management company. The district not only saved money, but also realized a profit, served more nutritious meals, needed less in-house recordkeeping, and concentrated more energy on education. (MLH)

Empirical estimates of production frontiers and average production functions performed for selected public elementary school districts in California support the hypothesis of an optimal school size model. Some policy implications of the results are briefly analyzed. Appended are 16 references. (MLF)

Provides a framework for considering cost-benefit analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis of college counseling centers and retention activities. Results indicated that careful evaluation techniques can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of student retention programs. (Author/BL)

Efficiency and effectiveness are defined and their potential use is examined in simple examples. It is argued that it is important to distinguish between the two and to measure components of educational processes rather than apply global values that are descriptive of courses and departments. (MSE)

Four strategies for reducing health insurance rates are described: negotiate competitive prices, improve cash flow management, reduce claims frequency, and shift cost liability to individuals. (MD)

Presents two strategies for estimating the value of performance by considering the changes in the numbers and performance levels of system units which lead to increased aggregate performance. U.S. Army commanders (N=100) completed questionnaires. Results showed the new strategies provide more appropriate and acceptable values of performance…

The Dyslexia Unit at University College of North Wales, Bangor, Wales has formed some conclusions about the necessary conditions for success of cost effective programs for dyslexic students. Efficiency can be improved by setting targets for entry to secondary school, referring children early, using structured phonic teaching methods and…

This article presents procedures for improving professional group cooperation in responding to mailed survey questionnaires which differ from those used with general populations. The procedures deal with: (1) improving the cost-benefit ratio of cooperation; (2) being sensitive to confidentiality concerns; and (3) allowing respondents a full range…

Functional Family Therapy (FFT) with status delinquents has undergone careful scrutiny in well designed studies. Describes three replications which extended FFT to new populations, utilized less formally trained therapists, and applied it in new treatment contexts. Provides support for the generalizability of FFT across client and therapist…

Examines the benefit (or loss) to a chemical engineer with a bachelor of science degree for staying in school to earn a master's or doctoral degree. Points out that, contrary to popular belief, the economics of getting advanced degrees in chemical engineering is currently favorable. (JN)

A study was conducted to examine microcomputer usage in secondary schools with special emphasis on business education. Surveys were sent to principals of 200 Ohio high schools. It was found that Apple and Radio Shack microcomputers are the most widely used and that more than one source will be utilized to fund future computer purchases. (CT)

Comprehensive wellness programs, offered in hospitals, universities, and large and small businesses, generally involve a health assessment followed by intervention. This article describes assessment tools and procedures recommended for health enhancement programs. (MT)

Three evaluation methodologies used in studies of volunteer utilization are reviewed: model-program comparison, benefit-cost analysis; and qualitative program review. The importance of utilizing a comprehensive evaluation incorporating all three methodologies is discussed using an ongoing community mental health center volunteer program as an…

New "supermicros," extremely powerful microcomputers, may take the place of minicomputers in college administration. The differences between the two types of computers are explained and suggestions are offered for what and when to buy. (MLF)

A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted to compare half-day versus full-day center-based programs for 11 pairs of communicatively disordered (CD) and 15 pairs of mentally retarded (MR) preschoolers. Results suggest that the more cost-effective programs are full-day for CD and half-day for MR children. (Author/CL)