This paper presents a brief overview of the changes made during our department level reform (DLR) process (Grant Title: "A Systems Approach for Civil and Environmental Engineering Education: Integrating Systems Thinking, Inquiry-Based Learning and Catamount Community Service-Learning Projects") and some of the effects of these changes on…

Conventionality and contrast provide the pragmatic basis of language use for adults. These principles play a vital role in the process of acquiring a first language as children learn how to interact using language.

Professional development that improves teaching and student learning meets research-based standards to ensure high-quality educator learning experiences. Since the quality of professional learning affects its results, many states, districts, and schools want to measure the effectiveness of their professional development to make targeted…

Purposes, strategies, and history of evaluation of the Maryland Teacher Education Center are presented. The original purposes are classified in three categories: Process, Organization, and Outcomes. The evaluation design is discussed as to basic questions and emerging conceptual frameworks. (DB)

A responsive model of evaluation was used for program evaluation in a French-speaking university. Two objectives were addressed: determining the local utility of the program being assessed and identifying the advantages and limits of the model and comparing them to those reported in the literature. (RB)

A model for designing gifted program evaluation is offered along with discussion of seven realities: (1) terms and concepts, (2) funding implications, (3) goals and image, (4) policy implications, (5) statistical and philosophical problems, (6) the role of teacher educators, and (7) impact on other programs. (CL)

A comparison of eight major generalized evaluation models is provided, enabling the educator to choose which is most appropriate for his specific program. (RW)

Outlines a model for evaluating management development programs. (IRT)

Papers in this collection address issues related to participatory approaches to assessing impact. The first section, "What Is an Impact Study and How Should We Do It?" contains: (1) "Participatory Impact Assessment" (John Shotton); (2) "Participatory Action Research as an Approach to Impact Assessment" (Victoria…

The author defines evaluation research and discusses the increasing demand for such research. A simple model for service and development programs is presented to illustrate the function of evaluation research within a dynamic system. (Author/MS)

Strategies for increasing evaluation research leverage are reviewed. Alignment of evaluation research with regulatory bodies with authority to suspend public program expenditures is advocated. Several likely obstacles in the development of the regulatory evaluation model are anticipated and addressed. (Author/RL)

The Judicial Evaluation Model (recently used by the Bureau for the Education of the Handicapped to investigate feasibility of implementing the Individual Education Program component of PL 94-142) is described in terms of its application in the State of New Jersey. Limitations and potentials are discussed. (JC)

Contends that D.L. Kirkpatrick's model for evaluating training courses can be adapted to evaluating products and services. Outlines how this can be done. States that measuring client and user satisfaction and performance can provide proof of technical communication's quality and value. (PA)

Summarizes and analyzes the four case studies of this theme issue. The analyses consider the three structural elements of evaluation capacity building (ECB): overall ECB process; actual ECB practices; and ECB occupational orientation and practitioner role. Provides a practical checklist for assessing ECB at an organization and a framework for…