The role of the evaluator in the decision-making process is discussed. Topics covered include identification of decision makers and decision-making processes, delineation of informational needs, identification of the various media and forums for evaluation ideas, and definition of functions that evaluators serve. (TJH)

Describes a training program evaluation instrument--the Training Impact Questionnaire--which assesses the application of a specific skill to work tasks. Suggests ways of using the questionnaire in communication training programs. (MM)

Although the vast majority of articles cited by Jeanne Chall and Marie Carbo fit the patched-up program evaluation category, the outcomes of nine randomized field experiments are the best evidence available in the research literature. Systematic phonics is an example of the weak instructional treatments presently plaguing education. Includes 16…

Articles and documents in the ERIC system that deal with evaluation of teacher education programs are listed in this bibliography. The focus is mainly on who is setting the standards for accreditation, what these standards are, how effective they have been, and how current evaluation systems can be improved. (JD)

Guidelines are presented that can help Parent Teacher Associations, schools, and parents assess the ability of community agencies and programs to serve the needs of children, families, and the community. Topics include staffing, licensing and accreditation, insurance, resources, program evaluation, networking, ethical and professional standards,…

Different dimensions of evaluation utilization and evaluator strategies for stimulating use are discussed, in terms of designing a formal evaluation utilization system. While the need exists to improve the design process, there is no simple formula. Evaluators should see part of their function as creating a repository of knowledge. (SLD)

Offers effective ways to increase student involvement in the training classroom. Suggestions include use of questions and answers, subgroups, case studies and role playing, and debating. Indicates that the measure of success lies in how much usable learning has been accomplished by the greatest number of people. (JOW)

A survey of 67 participants in a leadership development program (85% response), interviews with 7 program directors, and 6 focus groups of program alumni revealed the following results of participation: more willingness to challenge the status quo and take risks, broader perspective on leadership roles and responsibilities, improved problem…

"Black box" evaluation considers program input and outcomes (what) without considering process (how and why). A broader approach to evaluation based on implementation process theory explores the social system context of programs and provides information useful for improving them. (SK)

A survey of nursing program faculty and administrators, program evaluators, and board of review members (n=541) identified desired revisions in accreditation criteria and a process to support nursing education during times of change. Findings have given helpful direction to staff and appointed members involved with the accreditation process. (JOW)

Describes a career development program for at-risk youth and delineates both the process and the outcomes of a combined quantitative and qualitative program evaluation. Results suggest that at-risk youth can benefit significantly from this career development program. (JPS)

The five articles of this special section focus on the quantitative-qualitative debate in program evaluation. This section focuses on philosophical aspects of program evaluation, making it clear that the issues are far more complex than the simple quantitative-qualitative dichotomy described by T. S. Kuhn (1970) implies. (SLD)

Looks at models for evaluating training programs and discusses how they have been used by various companies. (JOW)

Evaluation of Washington's Family Independence Program (1988-1993), designed to increase self-sufficiency of welfare recipients, shows that employment was lower and welfare participation higher than under Aid to Families with Dependent Children and there was little increase in education and training participation. The program apparently made…

Describes programmatic model of faculty development that can provide framework for faculty development activities and programs. Suggests that building an organizing structure around specific activities can help identify steps to be taken and move departments toward building type of faculty sought, including developing supporting and nurturing…