A short history of program theory in evaluation is reviewed. Two related problems in program evaluation are discussed and illustrated: (1) how to specify in measurable terms the consensus of theories and values that guides the program; and (2) how to construct a theoretical framework that specifies the use of these measurements. (Author/JAZ)

Premature application of quantitative indicators formerly used for individual assessment and research to bureaucratic decision making can produce side effects that are dysfunctional in nature. In order to illustrate this phenomenon, the author reviews a general literature and utilizes examples form mental health care. (Author/BW)

Evaluation, defined as "the systematic collection and analysis of information to aid in decision-making and program planning," must include special considerations when applied to computer-oriented programs. Presents a three-tier classification system for computer programs based on their stage of development and evaluation issues crucial to each…

Describes how the Dallas Independent School District uses the research and development concept of context evaluation to help direct changes in instructional systems, materials, and methodology. (Author/JG)

The purpose of this project was to document and assess efforts initiated by the Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) to enhance integration of law enforcement into school safety. The MPS Division of Security and Safety led a two year pilot initiative (September, 2001 through August, 2003) to increase communication and collaboration across a number of…

Analyses were conducted replicating pilot work examining the feasibility of using the Louisiana's educational assessment data in concert with the Louisiana Educational Assessment Data System (LEADS) database and other associated databases to assess teacher preparation programs. The degree of matching across years and the degree of matching between…

Selecting an effective prevention program for a comprehensive intervention can be a daunting task. Not only must the program address the specific needs and assets of the defined population, but also there should be a level of confidence about its ability to produce positive outcomes regardless of differing settings and differing populations. The…

This guide presents a capacity building framework and process for demonstrating and documenting prevention outcomes. Achieving Outcomes was developed by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) in response to requests from the prevention field for guidance in selecting and implementing science-based prevention programs. The guide is…

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) is responsible for identifying and disseminating scientifically defensible knowledge about proven prevention models and principles to the substance abuse prevention field. This booklet is intended to assist prevention practitioners and…

A collaborative publication between Harvard Family Research Project and The Finance Project, this brief offers guidance in documenting progress and demonstrating results in local out-of-school-time programs. Following introductory remarks providing a rationale for program evaluation, discussing principles of program evaluation, and clarifying key…

Focuses on the issue of program evaluation in relation to the adult education agency in the context of the social system analysis set forth in the Knox agency essay (1967). (Author/DR)

One of the major concerns is the result of the research itself. A case was made for the necessity to clearly specific objectives, obtain appropriate measures of specified criteria, and design programs that have a high probability of achieving those objectives. A college program for student leadership is described. (Author/CJ)

Assessed the effectiveness of rehabilitation services provided to patients (N=277) of a large psychiatric hospital. Follow-up data revealed that 43.3 percent were productively engaged, 65.9 percent considered themselves satisfied with their level of community adjustment, and 41.1 percent were rated as involved in the community. Age, sex, and…

The evaluators of Push/Excel assumed that it was a systematically developed program with measurable outcomes, not a charismatically inspired movement whose effects would be hard to pin down. As a result, neither the program nor the evaluation approach used were adequately tested. (Author)