Evaluated existing purposes of the Iowa Conservation Education Center, identifying current users' perceptions of the goals/missions of the center. Indicates that the methodology employed could be implemented by other nature centers considering assessment of existing mission statements or identifying new mission statements. (JN)

Evaluation management requires a system for measuring, improving, and accounting for quality. The Institute for Program Evaluation in the United States General Accounting Office is developing such a system. (Author)

Describes a British writing assessment project intended to discern age-specific characteristics of writing and the project's subsequent assessment model. Evaluates samples of two kinds of writing, autobiography and argument, using the model. (HTH)

Since 1980, the University of Keele (England) and the Katholieke Hogeschool at Tilburg (Netherlands) have been developing joint programs of study between universities in the European community. The problems and practice of developing such links and those involved in fostering an innovative idea for cross-cultural studies are discussed. (MSE)

A method for using routinely collected data from large management information systems for program development is described. The example of school lunch participation illustrates the use of time series data to explore causes for observed changes in performance at the various project sites where a program is being carried out. (PN)

Reviews four different approaches to evaluation--decision-oriented, applied research, value-oriented, and systems-oriented--and suggests how each may be applied to the evaluation of instructional programs. Nine references are listed. (Author/CHC)

In 1965, the United States Congress established the Teacher Corps with the ultimate goal of broadening teacher preparation programs and improving educational opportunities for children from low-income families. The program requires that local projects incorporate characteristics that reflect current educational concerns. (JN)

Examines several elements of developing a school career resource center: assessment of school's career development activities and materials; administrative support; plan of action; location; interest sections; information on education, careers, self-assessment, special interests; selecting and gathering materials; advisory committees; public…

The English study monitored the first stages of an integration plan involving nine handicapped 12-year-old boys. The study pointed out the need for coordination between the special school and the special unit of the mainstreamed school and for an adequate curriculum for the students at the mainstreamed school. (PHR)

Discusses factors to be considered in the selection of microcomputers for school use (components, cost, reliability, serviceability, who will use them, applications, input and output requirements, processing, storage, etc.), and describes the development of a computer area for a multiple activity lab. (CT)

Using specific examples, describes key features of current comprehensive community initiatives to improve the lives of children and considers the limitations of efforts to evaluate them and factors contributing to their success or failure. Comprehensive community initiatives use multifaceted approaches to strengthen communities and improve the…

Examines complexities involved in developing a school-administrator preparation program in the Republic of Georgia. Discusses eight conditions influencing differences in countries' educational practices. Presents 10 major issues to be resolved, including vision and goals, degree of centralization, leadership and education models, past/present…

There are a number of problems posed by employee evaluation, and professional development often suffers from similar issues. Suppose employee evaluation and professional development were intertwined in a collaborative and evolving relationship, and both components were brought to bear on linking individual and company goals. The answer is the…

School leaders should use the charter-school movement as an opportunity to involve all community members in designing all schools and changing schooling's managerial structure. The Advocacy Design Center process is a community-building strategy based on democratic values and research-based models. The idea is to create vital, inquiry-based schools…

Schools must do more than implement programs constructed by universities; they must become aware of their capacity for generating knowledge. By encouraging scholarly inquiry and reflection within schools, practicing educators can add to the professional knowledge base and construct their own programs. Includes six references. (MLH)