Describes the a-e-I-o-u program evaluation approach, a framework for organizing key evaluation questions that allows for many models of evaluation and/or methods of data collection. Evaluations by users of the approach have indicated that it provides a practical way to organize evaluation questions and collect appropriate data. (GCP)

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…

This final article in a series on identification of cost/benefits data, formulation of models, and data collection discusses use of cost/benefits analysis results. The following issues are addressed: how to be prepared for study objections; how to increase understanding of your study; and viewing cost/benefit analysis as an iterative activity.…

A systematic approach for managers to make data-based decisions using management information systems in human services delivery settings is described. It involves a behavioral definition of management information use, the identification of behavior disruptions in information use, and an intervention designed to reduce disruptions and promote use.…

The results of a follow-up evaluation of a decision support system installed 5 years ago at Guilford College are reported. Changes in the system, resulting procedures, and the organization are described. (Author/MLW)

A 1-year study was conducted to implement a computerized data system for the comprehensive evaluation of Individualized Manpower Training System (IMTS) Learning Resource Centers (LRCs). Data for the system were collected by the administration of student, staff, and center summary forms especially designed for the purpose by the University of West…

The purpose of this project was to develop a comprehensive system for recording enrollment and accomplishment information about Adult Basic Education (ABE) students for use in preparing state and federal reports. Project goals were: (1) to develop a systematic program of individualized instruments and procedures for functional data gathering on…

Recent changes in the structure of curriculum and the instructional system in Texas have required a major reorganization of teaching, evaluating, budgeting, and planning activities in the local education agencies, which has created the need for a database. The history of Richardson Instructional Management System (RIMS), its data processing…

The Commission on Coordination of Higher Educational Finance was created by the Arkansas General Assembly in 1961 for the purpose of coordinating financial matters between public colleges and universities in Arkansas and to make recommendations concerning finances to the governor, the general assembly, and the respective institutional boards of…

Two examples of CBT which demonstrate unique design characteristics without gimmicks are described. The first is an example from Northern States Power Company (NSP), an electric and gas utility. The second details implementation of a language arts unit by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium in a public school seting. (JEG)

The Charleston County School District's efforts to increase the percentage of students meeting high school graduation requirements at the appropriate age and the percentage of students who graduate within 6 years of entry into grade 9 require a well-designed plan for monitoring their success. Evaluation of those efforts depends upon the use of…

This manual contains information on two evaluation systems for occupational programs at California community colleges. For the first, COPES (Community College Occupational Programs Evaluation System), which is a self-evaluation process, a guide is provided as well as a set of seven evaluation forms for the college president, faculty, counselors…

The rapidity with which information processing equipment is changing has necessitated the development of business and office occupations curricula with a more generalized approach to the technology of information processing. Educational planners should use a systems approach rather than the more traditional components approach to develop curricula…

The issues, options, and procedures for annually measuring overall payment error in the Pell Grant program are specified in detail. Guidelines for establishing a definition of Pell Grant payment error are provided, and the design issues related to error measurement are examined. A comparison is made of options for selecting a study sample and for…

The development of a complex, highly computerized system of performance indicators by the State University of New York provides the means to monitor internal progress, report to a skeptical public, and compare the system's performance with a national sample of institutions. The system is described here, and the performance indicators and data…