The efficacy of a new model of rural social service delivery--the Satellite Diagnostic Social Services Center--implemented in Arizona is evaluated. Results show how the dynamics operating at the community level and the processes involved in funding can affect a project's implementation. (Author)

The present study employed the Ecosystem Model to guide the process of assessing the needs of residents in student family housing, planning and carrying out suggested changes, and evaluating the effects of those changes. Results indicated the Ecosystem Model is well suited for assessment and redesign functions in student family housing programs.…

This article examines the various aims and methods of open universities and compares them with the system pioneered by Britain's Open University. He discusses the differences between open university systems, the place of the media, and the potential for conflict created by differing control systems. (CT)

A calculator intervention produced a marked increase in correct computational performance of eight educable mentally retarded adolescents over baseline for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems. Use of calculators enabled Ss to complete relatively complex arithmetic problems with greater accuracy than nonhandicapped Ss…

A survey regarding health education/health promotion evaluation activities was sent to American College Health Association member institutions. Results indicated that evaluations were used most often to modify or justify continuing programs. The implications of the survey results are discussed and recommendations made. (Author/MT)

Discusses a public library film literacy program offered to adolescents and young adults which incorporates films that are not curriculum-oriented and center around specific themes such as self-identity, creativity, speculations, and lifestyles. Seven films selected for program on social issues and viewers' evaluations are highlighted.…

Describes differences between research and practice of experiential education evaluation, noting that differences arise when evaluation is undertaken by and for persons outside the field. Notes five types of research strategies necessary to build a stronger research base in experiential education. (SB)

An evaluation of Technician Education Council (TEC) programs sought to determine the extent to which this British job training project meets the needs of students and employers as well as the changing requirements of industry. (SK)

Ninety-nine caregivers who utilized a respite service reported that respite care contributed to improved physical and mental health, better relationships, and increased confidence in their ability to continue in the caregiving role, while not affecting patients' physical or mental functioning. Reported likelihood of institutionalization increased…

Conceptual approaches employed in service utilization and multidimensional assessment research which have been used for planning and evaluating services to the aged are reviewed. Also examined are the conceptual properties of three widely used assessment instruments in order to assess their utility in providing a database for planning and…

Discusses Phoenix-area applications of 1981 Indian Health Service standards for alcoholism programs. Results of standard statistical techniques note areas of deficiency through application of a one-tailed z test at .05 level of significance. Factor analysis sheds further light on design of standards. Implications for revisions are suggested.…

Five issues that emerge in most evaluation processes and that have direct consequences for use of results are identified: the dilemma of multiple purposes, the value of criteria, overscheduling, the linkage between evaluation and decision-making, and evaluating process effectiveness. (Author/MLW)

Reviews the various determinants of educational quality cited in the two-year college literature and the methodologies designed and used to measure institutional and program quality. (AYC)

The methodology of participant observation in evaluation research is described. The author cites examples of its use and includes references to additional sources of information. The characteristics of participant observation, appropriate circumstances for use, and specific techniques of this method are examined. (Author/DWH)

The program evaluation process at the University of Houston, involving self-studies by academic departments and review by outside evaluation teams, is described. The process considers educational goals and objectives, as well as the quality of students, faculty, and facilities. (PGD)