Resource constraints can limit the size of research projects. Dealing with these limitations and reaping the advantages of larger studies through formation of a short-term consortium are discussed and illustrated through a case study of United Way agency members. Problems and advantages of the method are discussed. (SLD)

Examines the need for better preparation of teachers to live and work in rural Australia. Uses responses from a rural Queensland community meeting to discuss preparation needs related to multiage classrooms, cultural differences, and school-community involvement. Describes a new internship/mentor program at Queensland University of Technology that…

From November 1993 to February 1994, Riverside Community College (RCC), in California, conducted telephone surveys with 993 households in the college's service area to gather information on the amount and type of demand for educational services, identify factors affecting students decisions about attending a postsecondary institution, evaluate…

This literature review examines the utilization of community needs assessment data in program planning and evaluation efforts at community colleges. The review first defines and looks at the purposes of community needs assessments, noting that while such studies are purported to facilitate the planning and evaluation of credit and non-credit…

This document reports a needs assessment study designed and conducted to provide South Seattle Community College (SSCC) with information about the present and future educational, occupational training, and cultural needs of the total community served. Results of the survey are divided into chapters covering a specific population of the community…

Young people growing up in rural and isolated areas of Australia face particular challenges because structural change to the rural economy has dramatically affected their communities. Structural challenges include limited transportation, health and community services that are difficult to access and not confidential, scarcity of affordable…

The mental health needs of children and youth with learning disabilities and their families were studied in a survey of 79 human services directors in the Toronto (Canada) area. The study illustrates the importance of involving relevant communities in planning for community needs assessment and program implementation. (SLD)

In an effort to develop an integrated understanding of the educational and training needs in the West Kootenay Region of British Columbia (Canada), a study was conducted by Selkirk College (SC) on the training needs of residents of the region. The study results were designed to supplement two previous studies conducted in 1989: an intensive study…

An impact study/needs assessment of the Patrick Henry Community College (PHCC) service area was conducted as the informational base for PHCC's 3-year plan. Five groups were surveyed to gather demographic data and information on educational needs: 295 randomly selected citizens, 71 selected employers, 14 selected social service agency leaders, 40…

In collaboration with a county hospital and two local government planning offices, Greenfield Community College (GCC) conducted a survey of 1,200 randomly selected residents of Franklin County, Massachusetts, to obtain a demographic profile of area citizens and to identify their needs in the areas of postsecondary education, health care,…

Developed by Portland Community College's (PCC's) Institute for Community Assistance, this guidebook provides checklists of steps that need to be followed in the development and delivery of new, experimental, and custom-designed programs for the community. The booklet begins by explaining the function of the Institute in assisting PCC staff in…

This national and state review provides a synthesis of current thinking and practice concerning prekindergarten programs in public schools. Section I discusses the need for preschool programs in terms of the changing family and workforce, the baby "boomlet," and socioeconomic factors. Section II reviews early childhood programs,…

Presents a two-day activity for middle school students, focusing on freedom of assembly and the difficult balance between individual rights and community needs to ensure safety. Stimulates discussion on the right to assemble using an American Bar Association poster (included in the issue). Suggests inviting a lawyer to class to further explore…

This document provides information from the National Family Day Care Project (NFDCP) for those interested in developing a family day care project in their community. The NFDCP was designed to provide examples of quality projects for community-based organizations to replicate. The project has also identified successful methods for designing,…

A study of the educational needs to be met by the Verde Campus of Yavapai College (YC) involved surveying seven populations. Responses were returned by 88 non-retired community residents, 96 retired members of the community, 191 members of the business sector, 240 current students, 208 former students, 19 faculty members, and 261 high school…