Designed to improve the long-term operational efficiency of the Montgomery County, Maryland, Public Schools (MCPS) payroll system, this study begins with an executive summary, including a set of recommendations and a chapter-by-chapter synopsis. Following an introduction to the study and a general description of the payroll system in chapters 1…

This handbook for institutional researchers focuses on describing methods and techniques for conducting and merging external and internal analyses in order to produce an expanded vision of alternative future environments. Such vision is needed for the formulation of strategic long-range plans. Section 1 begins with a discussion of how an internal…

This manual, based on two years of research in Great Britain, is intended to assist those who are involved in the education of adults. In particular, it is intended to persuade adult educators to examine the relationships between policies and practice and thereby enhance the effectiveness of educational provision. The first section of the manual…

Efficient and convenient comprehensive information systems, long kept from coming into being by a variety of obstacles, are now made possible by the concept of distributive processing and the technology of micro- and mini-computer networks. Such systems can individualize instruction, group students efficiently, cut administrative costs, streamline…

This manual provides a model for tracking the progress of special education and high-risk students who have completed secondary schooling. The manual includes a literature review, procedures for development of a followup system, a bibliography of over 200 followup materials, and a three-part followup instrument. Samples of followup instruments…

This manual is designed to provide the background needed by counselors to evaluate and select a computer-assisted career guidance system (CACGS) for their institution or agency. The manual is comprised of nine chapters. Chapters 1 and 2 explore the career planning process and the terminology used in computerized guidance, while chapter 3 combines…

Characteristics of student financial aid systems are reported and a framework for evaluating student financial aid systems and classifying major data processing designs is presented. The goals of a student financial aid system are discussed, including improved service to students, increased utilization of available funds, compliance with…

The relationship between data and their use in a planning, management and evaluation system in a higher education institution is discussed. Elements of the institutional planning process are detailed as well as the budgeting process and a method for relating fiscal resources to institutional goals and objectives. (Author/SF)

Identifies factors that reduce the effectiveness of computers as intermediaries and discusses possible negative effects on user satisfaction and the interaction between users and librarians. A set of guidelines for the improvement of online catalogs, based on user needs and abilities, is presented. (41 references) (CLB)

Presents a 10-step goal-oriented method for establishing an electronic college. Commitment to training, support, and motivation of people is advocated, as well as technological expertise. Each of the steps is described in detail using the "TowerNet" system from the Adult Education Department at Pennsylvania State University as a case…

As required by the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act of 1990 (VATEA), a project was undertaken to develop an accountability system for New York State equity programs funded under sections 221 and 222 of the VATEA. This document profiles the resulting accountability system and serves as a guide for program staff…

Recommendations for deriving and using student ratings of college teachers are presented. General recommendations for teacher evaluation include: (1) using multiple sources of data about a faculty member; (2) using student ratings as one aspect; and (3) determining the purpose of the ratings before they are collected. Ten specific recommendations…

Prepared for rural school teachers and administrators, the guide asserts that problems associated with smallness (costs, range and quality of existing programs, and special services to special populations) can be overcome by utilizing various electronic technologies in rural schools. Following an introductory section, Section 2 discusses the…

This guide for implementing the Vocational Education for Special Populations (ESP) Planning System is designed to assist states in modifying their planning procedures to be more responsive to the needs of special populations. Chapter 1 briefly describes the historical evolution of the concern for those with special needs and the emergence of…

The Users Manual for the Student Financial Aid Module of the Council for the Advancement of Small Colleges Planning and Data System (PDS) has been designed as a practical tool to be used primarily in conjunction with PDS participation. It is suggested that all small college administrators interested in the management and research of student…