"Black box" evaluation considers program input and outcomes (what) without considering process (how and why). A broader approach to evaluation based on implementation process theory explores the social system context of programs and provides information useful for improving them. (SK)

Outlines the history of human activity in the Antarctic and discusses environmental impact, responsibility, and management in the Antarctic. Reviews the development of an informational database by the Australian National Antarctic Data Centre that will inform environmental research and decision making. (LZ)

Briefly discusses the advantages of the qualitative approach to assessment and provides mental health counselors with some specific and practical qualitative-type measures that can be used effectively in counseling. (JBJ)

The author, using a weight machine in an airport lounge, varies the machine's input parameters of height and gender to generate data sets of ideal weight. These data are later used at in-service workshops and in both primary and secondary classrooms to explore patterns and make predictions. (JJK)

Addresses some theoretical, logistical, and methodological problems involved in researching the numbers of females in educational administration. The primary problem is absence of reliable national database and systematic data-gathering processes on national and state levels. Without such data, the research is incomplete, less reliable, and…

Describes an ethnographic case study of the collaboration on the production of an executive letter for a corporation's annual report. Notes that the study used triangulation (multiple methods to view a single object) in an effective manner. (RS)

Examines the effectiveness of qualitative and quantitative methods for researching the Holocaust. Concludes that strict adherence to the qualitative-quantitative distinction is counterproductive; both approaches have unique advantages and drawbacks, and data collected in either approach can be analyzed on the basis of the other. (AEF)

Discusses practices that a college can use to outsource services and maximize the opportunity for financial and operational success. The importance of data gathering, consensus building, and goal setting are stressed followed by tips on the preparation and completion of Requests for Proposals and recommendations for contract administration. (GR)

Guidelines for assessing small business skill needs include paying attention to internal resistance, limiting analysis to a small area, considering all stakeholders' perspectives and interests, using action-research methods, and understanding needs assessment as a continual learning process. (SK)

Presents data from 1990 to 2000 on college and university maintenance and operations (M & O) spending showing that M & O spending per student is less, spending per square foot is up. Included are M & O median salaries levels, and the median number of full- and part-time staff by function. (GR)

Explains to college/university business officers how to comply with Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statements Nos. 34, 35, and 9, which require the direct method of presenting cash flows from operating activities and reconciliation of operating cash flows to operating income by fiscal year 2001. Institutions are urged to begin immediately…

Explains how libraries can use data mining techniques for more effective data collection. Highlights include three phases: data selection and acquisition; data preparation and processing, including a discussion of the use of XML (extensible markup language); and data interpretation and integration, including database management systems. (LRW)

Proposes that a national database that allows for analyses of the demographic characteristics and the professional practices of school psychologists is essential to both represent and advance the field. Surveys 20% of all Regular members of the National Association of School Psychologists, asking for responses to items relating to a range of…

A discrepancy model defines what successful continuing medical education is and what it should be. Then data are collected and analyzed to describe the nature and scope of the discrepancy. This approach to educational needs assessment uses an outcomes focus to plan more effective continuing-education programs. (SK)

The data disk graphic organizer helps primary students learn to record and classify social studies information. This graphic organizer is made out of large paper circles divided into pie-shaped segments, with a brad attached to the center. Children use the disks to categorize information on the topic currently being taught in social studies. (SM)