Suggests that performance measurement data already being collected could become more useful, at low additional cost, by further analyzing the relationships among the measures, especially across time. Using logic models and analyzing variability among program delivery units could provide evidence for hypothesized connections among delivery,…

Examined the stages of evaluation practice and use at a national multisite community service program with an internal evaluation department. Reviews challenges to evaluation use and organizational supports for it and discusses the integrated theory of use of K. Kirkhart (2000) at both site and national levels. Summarizes lessons learned in this…

Performance indicators allow a standardized assessment of the performance of labor education programs. Adjusting performance for the reemployment rate of nonparticipants helps determine which programs to support and fund. (SK)

Discusses the role that causal models play in program theory evaluation. Considers several types of causal relationships and discusses three causal models derived from systems theory, the theories of virtuous or vicious cycles, symptomatic solutions, and feedback delays. (SLD)

Explores how theory-based evaluation can be used to help conduct formative, reflective evaluation in educational settings. Program theory evaluation identifies links between planned activities and anticipated outcomes. This model helps schools clarify program goals, and builds cooperation and buy-in an evaluation as it encourages reflective…

Examined the empowerment evaluation approach in the context of a case study of three comprehensive communities' initiatives. Considers issues related to the evaluator's role, differences relative to other inclusive evaluation approaches, stakeholder involvement, evaluation context variables, and the concept and practice of empowering program…

Describes differences between program evaluation in the United States and international program evaluation. Also describes a number of promising developments and methodological approaches and suggests areas in which a closer exchange of experience between U.S. evaluation practitioners and their colleagues from developing countries could be…

Introduces a new section for this journal devoted to teaching evaluation that intends to disseminate effective teaching strategies to the broad community of practicing evaluators. Articles for the planned section will focus on evaluation teaching and training in diverse environments. (SLD)

Work-based learning is an integral part of the educational system in some states and in others, communities and school systems are struggling to fit school-to-work principles into the educational process. Bottom-line commitment of employers and school districts is essential. (JOW)

Explains that external examiners who assess nursing education programs are common in Britain and British-influenced nations. Describes criteria for appointment, role and functions, and stages of the process. States that, although trends indicate declining use of examiners, the process can enrich both examiner and institution. (SK)

Presents an analysis of parents' views of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program. Results showed that parental involvement and knowledge of D.A.R.E. was high. Generally, parents were very positive about D.A.R.E., especially when they viewed the D.A.R.E. officer as an effective educator. Topics for future research are suggested.…

Describes a program evaluation system in which the review of programs' definitions of success serve as indicators of stated goals and changes in programs. Review of definitions of success of eight programs suggests information that programs want to use in making decisions across the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, delinquency prevention services. (SLD)

Explores the challenges of performance measurement in the context of political and resource pressures that frame the demand and supply of program evaluation. Professional evaluators must be resourceful and efficient in using their intellectual and persuasive powers to enlighten politicians and the public about program theory and effective…

Review of economics, industrial psychology, financial, and human resource development (HRD) literature was used to develop a systems approach to measuring return on investment in which HRD is a subsystem within the overall organizational system. The approach isolates non-HRD impacts and demonstrates applicability of statistical and mathematical…

Discusses a school-based therapy program using music for teenagers (N=19) who demonstrated depressive symptoms. Pre- and post-testing indicated a significant decrease in depressive symptoms. Offers recommendations for further research. (Author/MKA)