Limiting data collection to a sample group is one way to increase effectiveness in dealing with data. The paper describes how to draw a sample group (random sampling, stratified random sampling, purposeful sampling, and convenient or opportunity sampling) and discusses how to determine the size of the sample group. (SM)

This is a manual for those considering the role of Tutor in an educational programme following Open and Distance Learning (ODL) methodologies. To introduce the concept of self-learning, the manual is designed to be self-instructional: (1) Self paced; (2) Easy to read; (3) Easy to follow the instructions; (4) Illustrated with examples to enhance…

This document provides guidance for establishing a tiered instructional approach to support the achievement of all students in Maryland public school, particularly those not demonstrating mastery of grade level content. The framework includes student screening, identification of specific learning needs, provision of appropriate instruction aligned…

The National Research Center on Learning Disabilities (Lawrence, KS) prepared this manual as a tool for implementing Responsiveness to Intervention (RTI). The manual can help schools understand, design, and evaluate the RTI features that they will implement. This RTI Manual is based on current research regarding the features of RTI. While striving…

This manual was written as part of a study entitled "Studying the Cost and Value of Library Services," conducted from fall 1993 through spring 1995. The goal of the study was to address the problem of developing models and methods for studying the cost and value of library and information services in a way that can be pragmatically…

This compilation of articles from "The Reading Teacher" contrasts old and new approaches to reading assessment and offers methods that teachers can use in the classroom to build better readers. The articles suggest that in order to effectively assess young readers, one must integrate assessment with instruction, which requires new forms of…

Two instruments have been developed to aid teachers and other educators in evaluating educational software and courseware: the "Courseware Description" form and the "Courseware Evaluation" form. Complete instructions for using both forms are provided in this guide, along with the forms themselves. Prior to the instructions is…

This manual, the first of a two-part study, describes an assessment and planning approach which school psychologists may employ in working with low incidence, severely handicapped students. Past assessment approaches are criticized for being nonfunctional and largely irrelevant; the proposed approach is directed to helping students achieve the…

Intended for administrators and evaluators, the manual identifies models useful in evaluating special education programs in Maryland. An introduction to program evaluation, defines the concept of educational program evaluation, notes its purpose, and addresses its current status in the field of special education. Chapter 2 goes into greater depth…

Principles of program evaluation research are outlined so that bilingual education program coordinators can conduct methodologically acceptable program evaluations. The three basic principles of evaluation research are: identification of the program participants, definition of the program intervention, and assessment of program effectiveness.…

The manual guides institutions of higher education and evaluation teams through the evaluation visit and subsequent accreditation processes of the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, describing the Commission's policies and procedures. Chapter I brings together information on the work of the Commission's Consultant-Evaluator Corps.…

A model for the systematic assessment of the performance of college faculty members developed from work at Washington State University and the University of Nevada is presented. Matrices for scoring performance, activities, and achievements in the areas of teaching, scholarly activities, and service are provided. An illustrative scoring protocol…

The report describes a sample of effective vocational assessment practices for handicapped students implemented in California. An introduction presents the challenges and difficulties of complying with federal and state legislation that mandate nondiscriminatory vocational assessment and the least restrictive placement. Alternatives to…

This guide developed by MicroSIFT, a clearinghouse for microcomputer-based educational software and courseware, provides background information and forms to aid teachers and other educators in evaluating available microcomputer courseware. The evaluation process comprises six stages: (1) sifting, which screens out those programs that are not…

The paper reviews current rehabilitation databases and discusses ways in which they may be used to enhance the rehabilitation process. Their use decreases by 80% or more the time usually needed to manually develop rehabilitation-related data. A table presents questions that can be asked in selecting a prospective database, including whether the…