Needs assessment is defined as the contrast between present and desired conditions. To determine needs for educational program planning, a cooperative effort is recommended, involving parents, students, community members, teachers, and administrators. This training guide was developed for inservice training on implementing the concepts and practices involved in needs assessment. Fifteen steps are described: (1) determining the scope and possible outcomes of the program; (2) establishing decision rules; (3) stating goals for each component; (4) assigning priorities to the goals; (5) conceptualizing the data collection process; (6) obtaining measurement instruments; (7) obtaining the superintendent's approval; (8) collecting, summarizing, and reporting the data; (9) setting final performance standards; (10) determining needs; (11) determining the priorities among needs; (12) determining the feasibility of the desired program; (13) identifying the possible causes of existing weaknesses; (14) developing program objectives and activities; and (15) reviewing the proposed programs. The described needs assessment procedure is followed by stating the program; and using the evaluation data for decisionmaking and for future needs assessment. Exercises include selecting and ranking goals; selecting a needs assessment model; and questionnaire development. A bibliography is appended. (MH)