Describes the WorldClass Network, a fully interactive, inexpensive two-way distance-learning education program developed at the University of Minho (Portugal). The system is based on interactive broadcasting technology that links live television video with the instantaneous distribution of multimedia information through an integration of…

More than 200 videos, produced primarily by students, have circulated to families since a Virginia middle school's Home Visions Program began during the 1997-98 school year. Videos show students and teachers in action and contain valuable information on how parents can help their child succeed academically. Science projects figure prominently.…

Reviews Ohio's data-collection process and makes recommendations for developing a school-level data-collection system that gives stakeholders a clearer picture of resource-allocation/utilization patterns and of school operations' adequacy and efficiency. Various process and methodological issues must be tackled before instituting such systems. (35…

Describes experiences and concerns of instructors using the Instructional Television Fixed Signal (ITFS) program, a low-cost television system in which classes originating on the University of South Florida Lakeland campus are simultaneously broadcast live to various ITFS sites. Presents guidelines for distance learning regarding planning,…

Discusses outsourcing in library technical-services departments and how to make the department more cost-effective to limit the need for outsourcing as a less expensive alternative. Topics include experiences at State University of New York at Buffalo; efficient use of computers for in-house programs; and staff participation. (LRW)

Offers insights about online conferences from a participant's perspective. Topics include the development of computer-network technology that has improved online conferences; advantages, including early access to conference papers, participants' degree of control, increased interaction, convenience, and cost effectiveness; and suggestions for…

In eight multidisciplinary teams, 50 health care professionals participated in a case-management workshop. Pre/posttest data revealed significant changes in knowledge and more value placed on cost monitoring. These improvements did not vary by type of hospital, profession, or experience. (SK)

Focuses on ethical issues that can arise in the collection and analysis of data in evaluations. Addresses four issues: (1) the application of cost-benefit thinking to judgments about research ethics, (2) the quality of research design, (3) the need to explore the data, and (4) the censoring of data. (Author/SLD)

Outdated and cumbersome administrative processes and technology at the University of Missouri prompted use of business process reengineering (BPR) techniques to bring about change. BPR helped quantify staff resources and costs associated with major administrative processes, know where those processes were occurring, and understand opportunities…

Few schools command the funding to shift from zero security to updated closed-circuit TV systems. Cost-effective school security identification cards, which provide a rapid means of identifying those belonging on campus, can be integrated with administrative systems to track attendance, age, subject studied, and other vital statistics. (MLH)

Analyzes empirically some of the economic measures of quality in distance education (cost-effectiveness, cost-efficiency, productivity, effectiveness of media, and quality costs) with special reference to Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi. Includes seven tables and one figure. (Author/AEF)

Examines one university's efforts to develop a reliable and cost-effective multimedia classroom. Discusses why and how the process was undertaken, as well as the cost implications for the department. Reviews advantages and disadvantages of the actual system implemented. (AEF)

Describes how Rice University (Texas) simultaneously developed a streamlined client-responsive set of student services while replacing an antiquated information system. Emphasis is on how proper management and careful staging of major changes can result in extremely positive, cost-effective results. (Author/DB)

Since cost study data have their greatest impact when viewed within the context of institutional peers, this paper provides sources and strategies for the most effective use of comparative expenditure data. Considers comparisons at both the institutional and program level, as well as political considerations in using comparative data. Most…

There are usually three reasons for hiring consultants: to inspire or motivate staff, to provide staff with new ideas, or to glean information from research and evaluation studies to make informed decisions and changes. To benefit from hiring consultants, administrators should know their speakers, consider timing, get their money's worth, verify…