What a realistic training program should require, given a broad scope of research methodology, is discussed. Considering the core of evaluation research training, the diversity of methodologies raises issues about what is to be taught and how the involvement of students in actual projects is discussed. (Author/GK)

In-school suspension programs can be viable, beneficial tools if they give equal attention to rehabilitation and to order and control. If considered as merely administrative conveniences and strictly disciplinary innovations, they will probably provide no educational benefits. (Author/IRT)

Discusses some common issues which face all states in determining the extent and style of library services for blind and physically handicapped individuals. (Author/LLS)

Evaluation of the MICA project (management of instruction with computer assistance) revealed that the supporting software system was efficient and cost-effective, the instruction was adequate, there was no difference in student achievement, and few changes were necessary in order to implement the program. (Author/IRT)

The intent of this paper is to present a brief overview of the type of information that might be included in the applied learning technologist certificate program. (Author)

Cites several strengths of Upcraft and Schuh's book: (1) presents a context for using assessment in settings other than higher education; (2) communicates clearly and concisely; (3) acquaints the novice with qualitative and quantitative research; (4) provides useful information on assessment instruments; and (5) emphasizes importance of using…

Two broad classes of mixed-method designs--component and integrated--that have the potential to combine elements of different inquiry traditions are described. The conceptual ideas advanced in the first chapter are illustrated through selected examples of several mixed-method integrated models. (Author/SLD)

A pragmatic framework for making decisions about mixed-method designs is proposed and then applied to illustrative evaluation case studies to help identify the strengths and limitations of making practical, contextual, and consequential considerations a primary basis for evaluation design decisions. (Author)

It is suggested that there are some serious problems with defining the concept of empowerment evaluation, with its underlying assumptions, and with its proposed justification. Although devolving some responsibility for evaluation is good, devolving all of it to stakeholders is bad, as is thinking that the devolution creates a new kind of…

Describes and evaluates six common and/or empirically validated school-based substance-abuse programs, including Here's Looking At You, 2000; Developing Understanding of Self and Others (DUSO); Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE); Growing Healthy; QUEST; and Social Decision Making--Social Problem Solving. QUEST had all 11 key program elements;…

Explores a service-learning program at a university attempting to develop a service-learning minor. This article examines the effect of the program on students and the university community. The qualitative data were gathered from 25 students over a period from December 2001 to December 2002. The results demonstrate that students in a comprehensive…

Summarizes the chapters of this theme issue on youth participatory evaluation. The overarching theme from this collection is the shift from a focus on youth as defective to a view of youth as assets in community development. (SLD)

Studied the developmental impact of the National Literacy Mission of India, providing an evaluative account based on 97 evaluation studies. Compared findings with those from a 27-study synthesis of studies of effects of adult literacy efforts in Africa. Findings show the impact of literacy on the development of nations. (SLD)

Effectiveness of Responding In Peaceful and Positive Ways (RIPP) was evaluated in rural schools serving an ethnically diverse student population. Although results were not consistent across all measures and time points, several significant intervention effects were found on self-report measures of aggression, victimization, life satisfaction, and…

This book is written for program administrators who want to become familiar with program evaluation methods. Outcome-based evaluation is defined as a form of program evaluation that uses objective person-referenced outcomes (measuring the functional level and social roles of program clients) to analyze effectiveness, impact, or costs and benefits.…