The Cooperative Extension Program Evaluation Survey tests seven variables: behavioral change, tax dollars, support, family coping, quality of life, self-esteem, and stress and depression. Tests in family life programs in two states with 244 participants demonstrated its usefulness. (SK)

Data from a survey of executive development directors were the basis for this mentoring program framework, consisting of (1) program development (protege and mentor selection, training, and linkage); (2) implementation (career and psychosocial functions); and (3) evaluation (formal and informal outcomes assessment). (SK)

Examines the training practices of counseling psychology programs with regard to preparing students to deal with sexual feelings toward clients. Also examines the perceived adequacy of this training by practicing graduates of these programs. Results show that, although most programs report addressing this issue, only about half of the graduates…

Using Girl Scouting as an example group, the authors discuss eight issues in measuring outcomes of youth programs: multidimensional outcomes, attention span, developmental changes, use of comparison group, age-appropriate measures, culturally sensitive instruments, program versus individual evaluation, and ethical issues in testing. (JOW)

Discusses the role of evaluation both in improving programs and in determining program effects. Explains how to conduct a strong and methodologically rigorous evaluation and discusses additional factors policymakers and practitioners should consider when interpreting the results of home-visiting program evaluations. (SLD)

In this same "Kappan" Issue, Walberg and Greenberg mistakenly allege that Success for All was developed for ulterior (financial) motives, is based on questionable research, and has had poor results. Literacy achievement has not risen for 70 years. Success for All is no panacea but is tackling this problem. (10 references) (MLH)

A series of workshops to help British nurses learn to appraise research and use it in practice was evaluated through questionnaires and study of three workshop sites. The programs effectively reduced fear and increased understanding of research, overcoming the problem of jargon. Critical appraisal skills were improved. (SK)

Examines a state-operated mental retardation service delivery system and conducts a systems analysis of the case coordinator referral system to determine the characteristics of individuals who were likely to be referred to supported employment. Performs an outcomes analysis of the system's supported employment program to determine who was likely…

The vision of continuing professional education should be reframed to place development of expertise and improvement of professional practice at the core. Providers would offer market-driven services that include education, evaluation, and consultation. (SK)

Needing care and community living skills after years of institutionalization, individuals with serious, persistent mental illness present a challenge to existing mental health providers. This article reviews the benefits and limitations of adult foster care, and presents the Homeshare Model as an example of outpatient care implemented in South…

Surveys students to evaluate a new Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) baccalaureate program at the Pennsylvania State University Commonwealth College. The program emphasizes the link between technology and interpersonal communication. Results show that the program's primary success has been with improving students' comfort level and hence…

Describes an application of multilevel modeling to repeated measures as part of an evaluation of Reading Recovery in 22 schools in England and multivariate models are applied to the within and between school aspects of the design. Results show Reading Recovery to be effective in the short term, but not the long term. (SLD)

Illustrates how evaluating the Oklahoma City Smoke Alarm Project increased its success in reducing residential fire-related injuries and deaths. The program distributed and tested smoke alarms in residential dwellings and offered educational materials on fire prevention and safety. Evaluation provided sound data on program processes and outcomes,…

Describes the Young Scholars Program (YSP), which seeks to expand the pool of underrepresented minority youth who aspire to attend college, and to help them meet entrance requirements and successfully obtain a college degree. Results suggest that the YSP, as well as students' positive reputation among family members, peers, and teachers, produced…

A community was informed about cancer symptoms in a letter. Participants who observed the symptoms were encouraged to visit a health center. Fifteen previously unknown cancer cases were detected. Results indicate that it is possible to inform and educate the population about cancer symptoms without causing anxiety if there is an organization that…