The applicability of marketing research to development of college programs in collaboration with other institutions or individuals is discussed. It is recommended that college administrators conduct ongoing environmental scanning to identify major opportunities for joint programs, forming research groups to screen basic ideas and explore program…

A grounded meta-analytic technique for comparing organizational interventions derived from rational-based strategies (e.g., management-by-objectives, planned change) with organizational culture-based strategies (organizational culture, climate) is described. The method is seen as useful for integrating qualitative and quantitative research.…

The ERS Standard for Program Evaluation encompass front-end analysis, evaluability assessment, formative evaluation, impact evaluation, program monitoring, and evaluation of evaluation. Written as simple admonitory statements, the Standards are organized into sections on formative and negotiation, structure and design, data collection and…

This article proposes that a feasibility study should precede a major college fund-raising campaign. Issues to consider include what such a study can accomplish, what makes it credible, who should do it and when, how to determine who should be interviewed, time requirements, costs, consultant role, and expectations. (MSE)

It is suggested that low-endowment private universities must apply better marketing techniques in strategic planning to ensure survival. Recommendations are made for using market research effectively, identifying new markets, and directing media communication accurately. The student's role as consumer is seen as the starting point for product and…

Educational planners and policymakers are rarely able to base their decision-making on sound information and research, according to this book. Because the situation is even more difficult in developing countries, educational policy often is based on research conducted in others parts of the world. This book provides a practical framework that can…

Use of student focus groups to help shape college and university student recruitment efforts is examined, illustrated with the experiences of a variety of institutions. Benefits and limitations of the approach are noted, specific techniques for maximizing the groups' effectiveness are suggested, and uses of the resulting information are discussed.…

Institutional researchers and student financial aid officers can collaborate to construct the longitudinal data files needed to study students persistence and recommend persistence policy. (Author/MSE)

This handbook for state and local education agencies is intended as a reference to assist in initiating and/or improving follow-up systems or studies of former vocational students. A companion volume focuses on follow-up studies of special populations (see Note). Section 1, which contains information on use of the handbook, also introduces the…

A number of recent approaches to instruction appear to improve the thinking skills and academic performance of low achievers. Lists six steps to successful reform and an additional six strategies focused on alienated low achievers. Provides information sources for programs described. (MLF)

This handbook for state and local education agencies is intended as a reference to assist in initiating and/or improving follow-up systems or studies of former vocational students classified as special populations. The handbook is a complement to Evaluation Handbook: Guidelines and Practices for Follow-Up Studies of Former Vocational Students,…

College and university institutional researchers can use unemployment insurance wage and related files to describe and compare students' workplace status before, during, and after enrollment. However, some issues must be addressed, including data delays, uncovered employment and other work status, confidentiality of records, information…

Performance-based evaluation, along with a database of reliable and objective information concerning existing educational facilities, can help planners identify facility needs. An example of such a system in Vigo County, Indiana, is provided. (MLF)

Reducing educational services, including community education, does not appear to be an effective method of reducing energy consumption. Increasing efficiency in existing services reduces energy consumption more effectively. (Author/MLF)

This book presents information about the condition of schools around the United States. It also describes the link between architecture and academic success and offers suggestions for improving the design of existing and future school buildings. Eleven articles look at schools as places of deep meaning and show how that view can alter approaches…