Qualitative observations of groups in Bellcore Group Decisions Support Systems (GDSS) laboratory were analyzed for task type, anonymity, evaluative tone, overall satisfaction with meetings, motivation, and task importance. Results suggest strategies for optimizing either quantity or quality of GDSS meeting results and suggests further research for…

Data from a survey of executive development directors were the basis for this mentoring program framework, consisting of (1) program development (protege and mentor selection, training, and linkage); (2) implementation (career and psychosocial functions); and (3) evaluation (formal and informal outcomes assessment). (SK)

Discusses summer academy programs that feature classroom and hands-on clinical practicum experience to introduce students to the rigors of the academic preparation required for health-profession careers, and the opportunity to be involved in direct patient care and laboratory-research experiences. Contains 22 references. (Author/ASK)

Describes strategies to build and support coalitions for services in an era of diminished public and private resources. It becomes necessary to redefine the client, the community, and the agency or organization to develop appropriate roles for each component in the current social and economic climate. (SLD)

Describes the approach of Southern Maine Technical College (SMTC) in managing required federal student loan entrance and exit interviews. SMTC offers group interviews each time the student borrows, and has also increased student attendance rates at exit interviews to 94% by adding incentives such as prizes underwritten by willing sponsors. (DB)

Recounts how one community's response to tragedy illustrates that a community-based system of care can meet the needs of individuals, families, and organizations in culturally competent ways. Examines how the implemented program successfully meets the community's needs for coordinated children's mental health services on the community's terms.…

Success for All, evaluated highly in several cities, has received unfair criticism. Opposing the process for developing, evaluating, and disseminating effective programs to high-poverty schools (particularly highlighting flaws in a tiny subset of studies) merely sows doubt and misinformation about a most promising reform development. (Contains 44…

The vision of continuing professional education should be reframed to place development of expertise and improvement of professional practice at the core. Providers would offer market-driven services that include education, evaluation, and consultation. (SK)

Study randomly samples 66 drinking and driving television public service announcements that were then coded using a categorical and dimensional scheme. Data set reveals that informational/testimonial messages made up almost half of the total; positive appeals were the next most common, followed by empathy, fear, and modeling appeals. (Contains 34…

The Families and Schools Together (FAST) Program is a family-support program that helps schools build strong relationships with families of children aged 6-9 experiencing behavioral or academic difficulties. A recent study examined FAST's application in San Antonio, Texas, focusing on six community-building strategies. (Contains 29 references.)…

Surveys 20 elementary school administrators. Finds they: do not share the same definition of reading, and differ in their perception of which aspects of reading are most important; agreed that teachers and central office personnel established goals for reading programs, and seek advice from teachers and reading supervisors; and felt they best…

Shares observations about factors critical in the outcomes of the review of Ohio's state-supported doctoral programs in English. Details some of the responsibilities and challenges that both the departments and review panel faced in developing extensive self-studies. Argues that departments should address mismatches or anomalies in their programs.…

The influence of program-related constructs on perceived quality of treatment programs was assessed using a latent variable modeling approach and the responses of key personnel from 294 drug treatment facilities in Los Angeles County (California). A clear philosophy and emphasis and greater frequency of services significantly predicted greater…

Analyzes successful family literacy projects. Finds defining characteristics and key features of practice that can be used to establish effective family literacy programs: offers literacy instruction to families, broadly defined; creates strategic recruitment plans; emphasizes retention; creates a supportive environment; and includes ongoing…

Presents definitions and purposes of delegation, accountability, and empowerment as parts of a system aimed at high performance. It explores how advanced program evaluation methods can make delegation and accountability more effective and empowerment less risky. (SLD)