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 document contains the full and short papers on evaluation of learning and systems from ICCE/ICCAI 2000 (International Conference on Computers in Education/International Conference on Computer-Assisted Instruction) covering the following topics: a new method for efficient study of Kanji using mnemonics and software; a study on the relation…

Assessments should improve performance by providing usable feedback, and should not merely audit it. Problems with educational accountability policies stem from a flawed view of student assessment. Intellectual excellence cannot be obtained via one-time mandated tests composed of proxies for real challenges. Common standards should be developed…

What has been learned from the study of relationships between abilities and outcomes learned in college and those abilities as they are performed at work is summarized to infer principles that should inform a national system to assess the higher order thinking and communications skills of college graduates in support of the National Education Goal…

This publication is the second annual report on the programs and plans of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Representatives of state and federal education agencies have presented the NCES with a report, "A Guide to Improving the National Education Data System," which contains recommendations for improving the nation's…

Lessons from the 18-year institutional experience of Alverno College in Milwaukee (Wisconsin) with assessment for the improvement and verification of student learning are summarized. Principles are described that should inform a national assessment system with the dual purposes of improvement and accountability by incorporating the following key…

This booklet focuses on how to manage a distance learning system so that it maximizes the efficient use of resources while meeting its goals. The management of a distance learning system involves planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. The author focuses on the choice of institutional framework and the funding system; and then describes…