Describes the success rate index and computer software utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of residential treatment programs. The program is sensitive to influences, provides for differential weighting of quantitative evidence, and provides information that can guide planners in improving the quality of treatment. (BL)

Four intervention techniques--choosing and defining a target behavior and task analysis, using antecedents, using consequences, and using data collection procedures--were effective in improving related skills of nine parents of at-risk toddler-aged children. Using parents to teach the techniques to other parents was also demonstrated effective and…

In order to help users make informed decisions when buying communications software, this article suggests that buyers consider communications software compatibility; software protocols for data transmission; software products offering compatibility with Telenet, Prestel, and Ethernet/XTEN; specific intended applications; and specialized features…

Preservice teachers need to be prepared for mainstreaming of handicapped students into the regular classroom. The attitudes of preservice teachers toward education of the handicapped in regular classes were assessed to discover if college courses dealing with special education influence attitudes. (DF)

Examines the historical continuity, definition, institutionalization and legitimacy, and expansions of Black Studies as a discipline. Draws data from interviews conducted during 1978-79 with directors of Black Studies programs at 10 major universities. (KH)

Evaluated the effectiveness of a multicomponent program designed to enhance the maintenance of weight loss in moderately obese clients (N=43). Results of 15- and 21-month follow-up assessments revealed that the multicomponent program significantly enhanced the maintenance of weight loss. (LLL)

Meta-analysis of 70 studies examining the efficacy of drug treatment for severe behavior disorders indicate a modest positive effect for drug intervention. Subsets of data aggregating behavioral, cognitive, and physiological outcomes are examined as well as variation for drug effects in terms of subject characteristics and design variables.…

Five historical stages are identified in analysis of placement efficacy for mildly retarded students: (1) birth of the efficacy question, (2) tremendous growth in special classes, (3) move to abolish such classes, (4) search for alternatives along the continuum of services, and (5) recent re-analysis of appropriate placements. Research is…

A study identified the psychosocial needs of low-literate adults by using an instrument based on Erikson's ego-stage development model. It also tested the effectiveness of Achievement Motivation Training in counterbalancing the negative impact of school experiences on students' psychosocial development. (Author/SK)

Traces the history of longitudinal research on effects of Head Start since the 1960s and assesses its impact on government financial support and public policy. Findings of the Westinghouse Report and of the Consortium for Longitudinal Studies on early intervention programs are reported. (DT)

Discusses the importance of program evaluation, detailing the first step, selecting and working with an evaluator, and the terminology and uses of evaluation. Argues that evaluations should be cooperative ventures between evaluators and those evaluated, and should be part of a program from its inception; and that evaluators have both rights and…

Describes a study designed to describe and compare the degree of goal attainment expressed by advisors, officers, and members of Missouri FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapters and to describe and compare officer and member ratings of the quality of activities generally conducted in FFA chapters. (CT)

Investigated the effect of a short-term career guidance program on the career maturity and self-concept of Black and White delinquent youth (N=40). While not significantly different, the treatment groups achieved higher career maturity and self-concept scores than the control groups. (BH)

This article presents the results of a research study undertaken to examine the characteristics of Singapore's Work Improvement Teams in terms of their cohesiveness, productivity, loyalty, and drive and pressure to conform. The impact of leadership on these characteristics is also examined. (CT)

The author states that neither cutting-edge nor conventional instruction is the right choice for all training demands. A close look at the learning tasks and learner abilities at hand will reveal the most appropriate, most productive method for meeting specific needs. (CT)