Briefly describes the content, organization, and multiple influences on the 4-H program in relation to a national program evaluation. Discusses influences of the sponsors and evaluators on the evaluation and problems encountered because of competing values and perceptions. Reviews evaluation findings and speculates on the utilization of the…

Discusses computerized management information systems (MIS) data in mental health program evaluation. Using an actual evaluation with data from the Multi-State Information System as an example, practical problems in collecting and assembling useful information are presented. MIS data can be useful; however, care must be taken to assure the quality…

Describes a technical assistance approach that offers a systematic framework for planning, conducting, and evaluating in-service training. (Author/MLF)

Describes how to measure whether students are making significant gains in reading. (JM)

Is it ethical to select clients at random for a beneficial social service, then deny the benefits to a control group for the sake of science? Participation of control groups in planning, implementation and evaluation of social programs may resolve ethical issues. (Author/CP)

Using the Cognitive Research Trust (CoRT) Thinking Project as an illustration, two problems are discussed: the difficulty of deciding just what to investigate, and how to control the continual development that is necessary throughout the duration of a project. (BW)

Critical issues in the process of program evaluation are (1) identification and definition of objectives and outcomes, (2) development of valid and reliable forms of assessment, (3) development of methods of data analysis and interpretation, and (4) extension of the use of evaluation results. (SK)

A method is described for estimating changes in the rate of development because of an early intervention program as applied to developmentally disabled children. The clinical usefulness of the technique described seems to outweigh the potential for admitted but unavoidable methodological imperfections. (Author)

Considers the methodology, findings, and conclusions of three studies conducted by Stephen Epler, Louis Bender, and James Perkins, which evaluated the Junior College Leadership Program. The project was funded from 1959 through 1974 to establish university programs for the preparation of two-year college administrators. (DML)

This paper has presented a model for the evaluation of management information systems. The three levels of information considered were actual, perceptual, and attitudinal. The dimensions of evaluation discussed were function, utilization, and effects. (Author/IRT)

Suggests ways for teachers to evaluate their effectiveness and the effectiveness of their reading programs. (FL)

Exploring a technique for acquiring qualitative data from standardized instruments and using them in formative evaluation of new cirricula, this article discusses assets and limitations of the qualitative analysis technique as applied to a grade 10 science course. (JC)

Part of a graduate program in clinical community psychology was subjected to a jury trial as a form of program evaluation. The theory of the trial as evaluation, the problems of implementation, and a post-trial evaluation are discussed. (Author/MH)

Discusses four aspects of strengthening and maintaining existing programs: (1) systematic assessment of existing programs; (2) decisions emerging from this assessment; (3) the complementary roles of program directors and other staff members; and (4) methods for making positive program improvements. (Author)

Minimum competency testing programs may discriminate against handicapped students. Action must be taken, this article warns, to assure that such programs do not emerge as an exclusionary practice that will require years to overcome. (Author)