The selection of appropriate data sources for institutional research is discussed. It is suggested that the provision of timely, accurate information for administrative decision-making depends on the researcher's ability to determine which data are relevant to the problem. This is of particular concern for institutional researchers because they…

An investigation of the naturalization experiences of Hispanics shows that factors like occupation and length of time in the United States jointly influence the decision to become naturalized. The support of knowledgeable individuals is required to guide the candidates through the mechanics of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. (VM)

Describes three basic approaches to needs assessment--problem identification, problem analysis, and problem verification--and assesses them in terms of their potential utility to users in business and educational settings as measured by their estimated time requirement, accuracy, and cost. Needs assessment data collection resources and techniques…

Information utilization was examined among 90 social service decision makers. Results indicated that propensity to use a particular type of information is relatively independent of the propensity to use a particular source from which the information is obtained. (Author/LMO)

Suggests a program of research in Management Information Systems (MIS) by means of identifying five general considerations for any MIS design -- psychological type, class of problem, method of evidence, organizational context, and mode of presentation. Argues that a full program of MIS research should test the interaction effects of all possible…

Programs to help people cope with critical life events should first help them identify what information is needed and then teach them the necessary skills. Unfamiliarity with potential information sources is the greatest barrier between the individual and the source of information. (JAC)

Describes a study that investigated how CEOs (Chief Executive Officers) in the Canadian publishing and telecommunications industries acquire and use information about the business environment. Topics discussed include environmental scanning; perceived environmental uncertainty; information sources; information use in decision making; and a…

Four consumer education strategies (control, audiovisual presentation, pamphlet, presentation and pamphlet) and 4 consumer information strategies were used with 448 Canadians choosing fire-resistant upholstery. The information treatments influenced importance of fire resistance as a product attribute, although the education treatment affected…

Discussion of decision making focuses on a study that was conducted to examine how policymakers at the local community level use social science information in making decisions. The use of social science information and other information sources in two communities examining health care issues is described. (Contains 18 references.) (LRW)

This document provides information on college planning and was developed for high school seniors attending Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, Illinois. Although some information is specific to Lyons Township seniors, most of the information is relevant to college-bound students in general. Six steps in applying to college are outlined: (1)…

A study investigated the influence of various information sources on graduate students' communicative, social, and academic expectations. Specifically, the study examined whether (1) those students who received preentry information about a university from an informal source would perceive that more of their expectations were met than would those…

The lack of comparable information for prospective students can and has resulted in wrong decisions about college choice, which are costly to the student, institutions, and society. A strong possibility exists that outside agencies will soon impose additional standards of comparability on postsecondary institutions. Such externally imposed…

This paper points out three data systems built and monitored by a school system in an effort to increase the frequency of correct decisions. The first was the traditional student demographic data system on attendance, dropouts, vandalism, and other information, filed by sex, age, grade, race, and school. In addition, data were collected on failure…

Higher education is now and will increasingly be faced with requests for data from a variety of sources to which it is accountable. Such data may ultimately be used in decision-making regarding the appropriation of public and private resources. Comparisons of costs and other measures among institutions will be the byword. Thus it is important that…

The jobtype of an academic librarian--administrator, public service librarian, or technical service librarian--appears to be an important determinant as to corresponding contacts with various types of information sources important in decision making. (Author/MBR)