Time, money, and learning effectiveness should all be considered in evaluating an instructional system. As an illustration, the authors describe the evaluation of an individualized instructional system using tutors. (Authors/BD)

Examines the effectiveness of competency based teacher education (CBTE) programs in terms of student achievement, acquisition of teacher competencies, and reactions toward the program. In determining the effectiveness of CBTE, it is advisable to examine each program's components and to evaluate each program in terms of its outcomes. (Author/IRT)

The formative/summative evaluation dichotomy suggested by M. Scriven is challenged, and a conceptual typology is presented that crosses improvement and assessment evaluation functions with process and outcome program stages for four basic types of evaluation. This framework accommodates mixed types of evaluations. (SLD)

A western North Carolina study explored how 31 teachers and 35 students viewed implementation of the 4 x 4 block schedule in five high schools. Teachers generally favor the 4-period schedule, but several cited absence problems, less student homework, and "uneven" student schedules. To reap full benefits from block schedules, principals…

A western North Carolina study explored how 31 teachers and 35 students viewed implementation of the 4 x 4 block schedule in five high schools. Students overwhelmingly favored the schedule. Advantages included getting better grades, participating in school-sponsored clubs during the school day, having less homework, and graduating a half-year…

Responds to "Autistic Recovery? An Analysis and Critique of the Empirical Evidence on the Early Intervention Project" (Gresham and MacMillan), which criticizes research showing the effectiveness of the UCLA Youth Autism Project program for children with autism. The article's misunderstandings are discussed and the program is explained. (CR)

Responds to "The UCLA Young Autism Project: A Reply to Gresham and MacMillan" (Smith and Lovaas), which criticized a review questioning the effectiveness of an intervention for children with autism. The Smith and Lovass article is described as defensive, factually inaccurate, and as not adequately addressing the question of external validity.…

Describes a program intended to improve the school attendance of truant students, called the Mentoring and Tutoring Help (MATH) program. Discusses the importance of mentors and their roles in the MATH program, and presents the 18 most critical organizational steps for truancy intervention in the program. (SR)

Examines the recent past of network certification; concludes that web-based training works best under the guidance of a trainer with personal investment in the learners. (JOW)

Cross-sectional analysis of 19 agricultural extension projects conducted by the German Agency for Technical Cooperation in Asia and Africa identified influential features: open attitude, participatory analysis, and focus on priorities of the target group. Among the problem areas were superficial analyses of situations and methodological…

Although Rochester, New York, is a pioneer in teacher reform, change has been painfully slow. Pockets of success are not reflected in district statistics. The 1987 reforms directed at teachers were not far-reaching enough to ensure improved test scores, given continuing problems of large class sizes, crowded schools, students' increasing poverty,…

Describes a career development project in Rapid City, South Dakota, that focuses on Native American parolees with multiple barriers to employment. The program was effective in placing 75% of its 1994 group in jobs. Clients reported that feeling valued and important was the most important aspect of the experience. (RJM)

Describes the sociocultural context of Greek education, especially foreign language learning, as well as teaching practices and approaches. Describes a foreign language program (Teaching English) in a Greek preschool, and notes positive reactions to the program. (SR)

Discusses considerations in adapting intensive family preservation services developed in the United States to the Australian culture and service system. Based on an evaluation of a pilot Homebuilders-style program in the state of Victoria, Australia. Implications for adapting programs to different cultures and service systems are considered. (JPB)