This report contains an introductory paper by Robert E. Stake, "Program Evaluation, Particularly Responsive Evaluation," to a conference, "New Trends in Evaluation," at the Institute of Education, Gothenburg University, Sweden. Also included are comments on State's paper by two invited discussants, Eskil Bjorklund and Terence Marton. It further…

In tracing the history and purposes of domestic antipoverty programs, this study seeks to explain why the problem of poverty in America is still unsolved. The analysis of past performance and proposals for the future are based on a combination of cost-benefit analysis of specific programs and general economic analysis of the problems of domestic…

Although there are fundamental differences in the objectives of the two activities, the programing of instructional materials bears many similarities to the construction of tests. A systematic comparison of the problems and procedures reveals important implications for programing from the older field of testing. Theory and experience in test…

Describes the instructional development of two related courses: Managerial Finance, a personalized system of instruction; and Finance, Learning Theories, and Practices, a practicum. Student evaluations of both courses were conducted, focusing on student tutors and the systems of instruction. (VT)

Outlines some of the principles upon which evaluation efforts may be based, and discusses previous attempts at evaluation, as well as the shortcomings of some existing procedures. Guidelines for determining the objectives of evaluation exercises in relation to user education are offered. (Author/JAB)

The purpose of consultation is to help other workers to become more efficient and effective. The consulting process is described in nine stages. Positive outcomes are likely if counselee and consultant agree on consulting modality. Consulting models can help support consultation in the work environment. (Author/MFD)

The structures within which software evaluation is carried out vary widely. Three broad types of evaluation methodologies offer models that capitalize on important aspects of evaluation: (1) product review; (2) checklist procedure; and (3) user observation. Structures and methodologies for software evaluation have evolved together and have…

The study compared effectiveness and efficiency of rehabilitation services in Colorado between Workmen's Compensation (WC) and general disability (GD) caseloads in terms of summative and formative measures. Among findings were that WC caseloads demonstrated greater congruency between planned and actual vocational goals. (DB)

This article explores the relationships between kinds of evaluations, analytic methods, and interpersonal processes and the acceptance of recommendations by decision makers. Detailed typologies based on a review of the literature provide the basis for quantitatively testing concepts about the utilization of evaluations against empirical data.…

Based on experiences of the American Institutes for Research in conducting evaluability assessment (EA), common problems include: finding client programs, balancing standardization and flexibility needs, satisfying two clients, maintaining schedules, and demise of client programs. Their successes include: surmounting bureaucratic complications,…

Guidelines for use in formative evaluation of gifted and talented programs focus on objectives, obstacles (such as using standardized tests to evaluate gifted programs), and models. Steps are listed for initiating, carrying out, and completing formative evaluation. (CL)

The use of structural equation modelling in curriculum evaluation is discussed in two stages: first, a process model for curriculum evaluation from instructional theory is derived; second, the structural equation model derived from the process analysis and its applications to curriculum evaluation are described. (BW)

The process of formative evaluation used at the British Open University for course improvement is described.

The formative classroom assessment using cooperative groups described in this paper has four purposes: (1) to increase students' understanding of concepts through verbal interaction with peers; (2) to provide feedback to the instructor on the cognitive processes students use to answer questions; (3) to reinforce the classroom learning environment;…