Five indicators of failure suggest mistakes in program design or delivery: aborted planning, insufficient enrollment, negative reactions, unattained objectives, and incomplete transfer of learning. Learning from these mistakes requires deliberate reflection and systematic analysis. (SK)

As the former director of the Compton Fellowship Program, the author has an in-depth knowledge about the program. When she left the position in 1997, she became interested in doing research on the impact of the program. The author knew that she would filter the events and situations that took place through a lens which would influence her…

The Secondary School Physical Education Council of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education sets forth here recommendations for sound and comprehensive physical education programs in secondary schools. Role and function of the following components of a physical education program are considered: (1) the instructional program; (2)…

This paper discusses the utility of integrated systematic design methods for promoting educational research and development projects. It argues that procedures pertinent to the integrated methodologies of research-evaluation, monitoring-formative evaluation, and planning-research can be successfully utilized to promote the execution and completion…

The author attempts to show a relationship between technology education and trade and industrial education. He interprets the objectives of the combined discipline and presents ideas on program organization. (CH)

Although appropriate rater behaviors are critical to the success of any performance appraisal system, raters frequently receive little or no training regarding how to carry out their role successfully. This article outlines the major elements that should be included in an effective rater training program. Suggested training approaches and the need…

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…

Evaluating training programs through the use of checklists is explained. One sample checklist is presented for use by managers, supervisors, and/or evaluators for the program design and developmental process evaluation. Another checklist is presented concerning learning conditions. (CT)

This article examines the various aims and methods of open universities and compares them with the system pioneered by Britain's Open University. He discusses the differences between open university systems, the place of the media, and the potential for conflict created by differing control systems. (CT)

Explores the meaning of conference consumption: the process involved in deciding to attend, the dynamics entailed in participating as a consumer in both attitude and action, and the transfer of learning after the conference is over. Next, it examines the functions that a conference can perform. (CT)

Identifies five critical decisions and the component factors needed for their resolution when considering computerization: 1) manual versus computer information systems; 2) mainframe versus personal computers; 3) purchased versus "home-grown" software; 4) autocracy versus participatory democracy; and 5) whether computerized social work data…

Summarizes the gradual progress and present situation of the development planning of adult education programs in Finland. Discusses the principle of lifelong education, the organizing efforts for adult education programs, and the impact of this development planning. (CT)

A discussion of the concept of andragogy argues that closer examination of it could contribute to research and development of learning design in distance education and to the convergence of classroom and distance instruction. Original meanings are explored and related to learner centeredness. Related issues and design/facilitation guidelines are…

Practical reasoning with its dialogical nature and its special attention to aims, context, alternatives, judgment, and action emerges as an appropriate approach for understanding and taking action in the redesign of teacher education programs in vocational education. (Author)

Presents four writer-teachers' discussions of creative writing programs in two-year colleges. Discusses if creative writing programs have different goals/functions in two-year schools. Considers if there are any differences in the students, their goals, preparation, and experience. Discusses the untapped potential or future of creative writing in…