Discusses eight steps to be used in evaluating vocational education programs in correctional institutions: (1) determine purposes, (2) identify desired outcomes, (3) determine questions that need to be answered, (4) select methods, (5) identify staff, (6) collect data, (7) analyze data, and (8) report results. (JOW)

A discussion and demonstration of social comparison as a means of assessing programs for mentally retarded children is presented. The position is taken that the social validation method of norm peer comparison might be helpful in determining whether certain handicapped children should be moved to a less restrictive environment. (Author)

Presents criteria to evaluate inservice educational programs before, during, and after implementation, and keys these criteria to the different purposes for evaluation. (JOW)

Current and former students enrolled in consumer and homemaking education were studied to determine how they perceived the usefulness of consumer education concepts taught in all home economics subject areas. It was concluded that basic consumer education concepts should be integrated with home economics subject areas. (Author)

As companies devote more resources to training, the need for valid information about the return on investment increases. (JOW)

Examines a range of possible approaches to the organization and implementation of staff development within colleges in order to abstract those criteria which might be considered essential ingredients of a successful approach. (Author)

Gopoler's seven criteria for planning and evaluating continuing education programs are illustrated and then applied to the evaluation of a short-term program for managers of ambulatory care services. Modifications of the criteria are suggested, based upon the nature of the program. (SK)

An expectancy-value procedure is developed for delineating the nature of interagency relationships during the operation of a youth-serving agency. Advantages of this approach are presented. (Author/GK)

Describes a study of the Juvenile Court of Cook County (Illinois), its courtroom practices, and activities outside the courtroom aimed at helping status offenders. Results and recommendations are included. Journal available from National Office for Social Responsibility, 208 North Washington, Alexandria, VA 22314. (CT)

Describes a study aimed at identifying the concrete evidence that clients accept as demonstrated extension program accomplishments. The study attempted to create and test a technique for obtaining from extension clientele valid output measures of an extension program. (CT)

Evaluation of physical education programs for exceptional children provides information to enhance management; guide instructional and curricular decisions; defend program effectiveness, efficiency, and cost; and assist policy makers in funding decisions. Planning for program evaluation is discussed in terms of goals, guidelines, and approaches.…

Explores the problems involved in conducting program evaluation in the field of energy conservation. Highlights similarities between evaluation research and basic research. Examines stages of evaluation research within the context of energy conservation programs and argues that experimental evaluations are desirable and feasible. (Author/MK)

Discusses program evaluation methods for college learning centers. Describes the Goal Attainment Scaling method's seven steps: selecting problem areas, labeling areas of concern, weighting the scales, translating concerns into realistic goals, administering the student program, conducting follow-up, and scoring. Points to the model's flexibility,…

A member of the National Evaluation Policy Group discusses the dynamics of the national evaluation of extension education, and the national expectations, issues, and impact of the process. (SK)

Standardization is inimical to innovation. Although the function of a standard is to standardize, the Evaluation Research Society (ERS) Standards avoid a standardizing effect. Their contribution lies mostly in the symbolism of their existence: to issue a set of standards is to proclaim maturity of thought for the field. (Author/LC)