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…

Thanks to an entrepreneurial principal, nearly 75% of a rural New York State school's upper-division students participate in band. To ensure access, the principal bargains with second-hand dealers for instruments (using fees from photo profits) and charges kids a fee of $1 to $15 yearly. Consulting with the music teacher avoids duplication and…

After a discussion of the underutilization of cost analysis in education, this article offers several explanations for the relative scarcity of cost-based evaluations in education and considers the potential for greater use of such studies. Developing frameworks to unpack costs may be a way of bringing about greater use of cost-based evaluation.…

Identifies, classifies, and describes the range of cost studies in education and how they may contribute to improved policy analysis. Presents three examples illustrating applications of cost analysis, and reflects on key issues from previous applications in educational policymaking and evaluation. (SLD)

Explains how a public library can compute the actual cost of distributing tax forms to the public by listing all direct and indirect costs and demonstrating the formulae and necessary computations. Supplies directions for calculating costs involved for all levels of staff as well as associated public relations efforts, space, and utility costs.…

Discusses six considerations when designing and building computer and technology features into modern educational facilities. Issues include selecting a location, adapting to next generation technology, and planning for networking and wiring needs. Suggests that planning efforts should make certain that the technology acquired coincides with the…

Describes an inexpensive solution for holding large-group telephone interviews, listing the equipment needed (record control, telephone, phone line with modular jack, portable amplifier with microphone-level input jack, audio cable with jack and plug compatible with the microphone input jack on the amplifier) and providing directions for setup.…

This study estimates the economic costs of an enhanced Employee Assistance Program (EAP) intervention at a large midwestern EAP that serves 90 worksites. Results specify developmental and implementation costs and provide benchmark cost estimated for other EAPs that may be considering enhanced services. (SLD)

After five years, the AmeriCorps program, a federal program designed to encourage youth to perform public service by providing substantial scholarships after completion, has been both praised as effective in getting things done and criticized as cost-ineffective. Some feel the money could have been better spent for federal grants or work-study…

The drill-down process starts with a global question or issue, which then is broken down into its component parts for analysis. Once the analysis is completed, all the data are used to make a reasoned decision on next steps. There are two guiding frameworks: the variety of questions posed and the level of data analysis employed. (MLH)