Describes the development and evaluation of a project, directed by the College Entrance Examination Board, in which the public library serves as a center for adult independent learners. (PF)

Discusses the special problems of evaluation in a curriculum research and development setting. (Editor/RK)

Provides supportive evidence for a concept (M. Scriven's) of formative evaluation as a method for ongoing improvement of educational programs (including continuing education) through a description of the development and modification of a workshop in rehabilitation nursing, based on formative evaluation procedures. (TA)

Presents an exercise which teaches students a systematized procedure for evaluating their own term papers in order to improve and rewrite them. (MB)

This discussion of formative evaluation as part of the instructional design process focuses on developmental testing and expert review. A review of the literature helps define each approach, research on formative evaluation is reviewed, and 37 references are provided. (LRW)

Calvert County School District, Maryland, has developed a differentiated teacher evaluation system that promotes collaboration among supervisors and administrators in rating teacher performance. Methods involve informal observation, rating observation, and nonrating observation. Implementation is accompanied by extensive formative evaluation by…

Five librarians considered authorities on quality cataloging in the OCLC Online Union Catalog were interviewed to obtain their views on the current level of quality control in the OCLC database, the responsibilities of OCLC and individual libraries in improving the quality of records, and the consequences of quality control problems. (CLB)

Introducing a special bulletin issue about the role of research in music education, the editor discusses policies regarding the printing of material, stresses the importance of publishing and evaluating dissertations, and outlines the purposes of doctoral study. Concludes by emphasizing the need for not only research, but researcher-scholars. (GEA)

The paper describes a structured model for planning and monitoring behavior change programs with handicapped learners. The Behavior Teaching Plan functions as both a process and product, emphasizes the teaching of socially acceptable behaviors, and utilizes formative evaluation through use of intervention planning sheets and flow charts.…

Based on the "Courseware Evaluation Project," supported by the Israeli Ministry of Education and Culture, this article addresses basic issues regarding formative evaluation practices in the context of computerized instruction. Topics discussed included the rationale for evaluation, elements to evaluate, dimensions for assessing quality, and…

In attempt to answer the question of how to measure or evaluate the quality of reference service to youth, this essay examines the literature; defines the terms (reference services and tools, parental concern, library instruction); discusses move toward quality evaluation; and provides options and approaches to such measurement. (EJS)

Peer evaluation has great potential as a method of improving classroom instruction and enhancing the self-esteem and professional growth of teachers. The peer evaluation format would be more formative than summative and might include team teaching, videotaping, and reflective teaching--a carefully structured method of peer teaching. (JHZ)

Discusses the focus group interview as an effective method of eliciting public opinions at three points in the media production process--concept development, script completion, and completion of rough cut. Interview characteristics, objectives, respondent characteristics, moderator role, physical arrangements, interview techniques, and data…

The pooled judgements of evaluators and users of evaluations on eight panels examining eight simulated evaluation situations in higher education were analyzed. Choices regarding evaluation phases and tactics were found to be dependent on evaluation goals (wether the evaluation has a formative or summative purpose) and contextual variables.…

Two case studies provide examples of citizen and program participant involvement in program evaluation. The Reflective Appraisal of Programs at Cornell Cooperative Extension involves volunteer interviewers of participants; the Lancaster County (Pennsylvania) Office of Mental Health/Mental Retardation is reviewed by a volunteer citizens' committee.…