Six essays are presented that discuss the definition, methodologies, and contexts of program environment evaluation. Specific topics covered include the use of profiles and models, social-psychological classroom environments, program/organization congruence, program personnel, and measuring implementation of social treatment. (TJH)

Discusses the historical development of "hard" and "soft" systems thinking traditions and examines how these traditions have been understood and applied in the field of instructional development. Proposes the need for a synthesis of the two traditions in planning, implementing, and evaluating instructional programs. (AEF)

Describes an innovation in an outer-London comprehensive school and raises questions concerning its implementation. Describes the school and its context and outlines the innovation, Assertive Discipline. Presents classroom observations showing uneven interpretations by teachers and no positive effects on pupil behavior. Discusses seven potential…

Describes the long-range efforts to develop a comprehensive, multitiered multicultural education program in the Columbus (Ohio) Public School District. The article includes discussions on the philosophical framework underlying the program, staff development, curriculum changes, program planning and evaluation, course descriptions, and program…

Process evaluation of the Partners for Prevention pilot project testing an office-based system involving 17 Denver (Colorado) physicians in an effort to increase cancer prevention indicates the value of the program philosophy as well as various deficiencies in its operation. New strategies suggested by the evaluation are being tested. (SLD)

Examines one high school's implementation of a conflict resolution program, focusing on how the teacher's use of this process affected both teacher and students. Full development of a caring community, including mutual trust and respect, is needed to allow students to become fully self-responsible and empowered. The teacher's philosophy,…

Presents the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) plan for national guidelines and standards in school libraries. Provides a template and applies the planning model, using the National Association of Secondary School Principals example. Outlines planning and implementation objectives, and discusses strategies, communication tools, and…

Contrasts different methods of evaluating aid programs to small and medium enterprises. Methods focus on the relationship between beneficiaries and program implementers to explore the role intangible relational means play in specific cultural contexts. (SLD)

Explores implications for evaluation practice of using five different perspectives on organizations, drawing on the four models of social program implementation developed by R. F. Elmore (1978). It is argued that evaluation will only really be effective when its focus, methods, and management reflect realistic assumptions about how organizations…

This article presents a practical plan for improving reading comprehension and reader self-efficacy in grades 4-12 through transactional strategies instruction. Three phases of instruction are described and specific instructional strategies are provided. Suggestions for implementation and for evaluation of instruction effectiveness are also…

Presents guiding questions developed by the U.S. Department of Education's Technology Planning Task Force. Questions revolve around creating a vision of learning, using technology to support the mission, developing a supportive infrastructure, understanding the plan's context, garnering public support, and implementing and evaluating the plan.…

A questionnaire was used to assess the extent to which the Nigerian university sector has adjusted its sports ethos to Nigerian national sports policy objectives. Data indicated that universities have been negligent in promoting and monitoring their sports development projects. (EV)

This evaluation of the Pennsylvania Student Assistance Program (SAP) was conducted to determine overall efficacy of SAPs and, more specifically, how SAP is currently implemented. Findings indicate that SAP is being implemented as designed. Recommended is the development of benchmarks and indicators focusing on best SAP practices and effectiveness.…

Surveys at Darton College (Albany, Georgia) revealed that faculty felt little personal connection to existing pre-produced telecourses and that students felt isolated from the on-campus community. Describes the implementation, success, and subsequent expansion of a system allowing the transmission of courses to home-based students as they are…

Reports results from an initial evaluation of a project to develop and implement a whole-school approach to prevention and intervention in early literacy based on a design similar to "Success for All." Early implementation and outcomes from the first year of implementation in the Victoria (Australia) schools are reported. (SLD)