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Scale Influence on the Identification of Needs: Are Needs From a Fuzzy Approach Similar to Those from a Likert Scale?
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| Presenter(s):
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| Yi-Fang Lee, National Chi Nan University, ivanalee@ncnu.edu.tw
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| James W Altschuld, The Ohio State University, altschuld.1@osu.edu
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| Abstract:
Traditional needs assessment is based on the measurement of a gap between desired and current states. Discrepancy-based needs are often measured via Likert-scaled surveys which may not reflect uncertainty/ambiguity in judgments as is often the case in social science. A fuzzy approach using a scale range instead of a single score has the potential to deal with the problem. A literature review indicated little empirical study exploring the usage of such a fuzzy approach in identifying needs. The intent of this presentation is to examine whether Likert or fuzzy scaled forms influence how respondents rate importance and current status via two different surveys for a study of essential competencies for program evaluators. The respondents were about 200 evaluators in university evaluation programs organized by the Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council in Taiwan. Recommendations are drawn from the findings.
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Methodological Issues in Needs Assessment for Quality Assurance in a National Context: The Case of Head Start Needs Assessment
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| Presenter(s):
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| Hsin-Ling Hung, University of North Dakota, sonya.hung@und.edu
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| James W Altschuld, The Ohio State University, maltschuld1@columbus.rr.com
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| Abstract:
Needs Assessment (NA) is commonly conducted by agencies or institutions for assessing needs related to program improvement or the provision of services. When this type of NA is conducted at the individual agency or organizational level, the results are critical input for program/ strategic planning or for looking at the implementation of technical assistance by agencies. The head start needs assessment national analysis project is a case of the second situation. This presentation begins with an overview of the context and then proceeds into methodological issues and concerns encountered by conducting needs assessment in a national context. Lessons learned through the example case will be discussed. Participants' views on NA methodological challenges and possible resolutions will be incorporated into the presentation.
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Statewide Needs Assessment on a Shoestring: Obstacles to Effective Practice
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| Presenter(s):
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| Jacque Ewing-Taylor, University of Nevada, jacque@unr.edu
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| Bill Thornton, University of Nevada Reno, thorbill@unr.edu
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| Abstract:
In 2010, the Raggio Research Center for STEM Education at the University of Nevada (UNR) was asked to conduct a statewide technology needs assessment by the Nevada Department of Education. This assessment was guided by legislative requirements, as well as by a previous technology needs assessment that had been conducted in 2008. Data regarding state technology standards, district technology plans, technology availability, classroom technology use, and professional development opportunities regarding technology were collected from teachers, technology coordinators, and parents from 17 districts in the state of Nevada using online surveys and some telephonic interviews. Results of this needs assessment will be used by the 2011 Nevada Legislature to determine funding for educational technology, and to inform the teacher education programs and their information technology content needs at UNR as they undergo a significant restructuring in 2011.
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