The implementation and evaluation of the decision-oriented educational research (DOER) paradigm in a non-traditional university academic program
Abstract
This study implemented the Decision-Oriented Educational
Research (DOER)paradigm developed by William Cooley and William
Bickel (1985) and evaluated the effectiveness of this paradigm in a
non-traditional university academic program. The main features of the
DOERparadigmare: a client-centered orientation; a methodologically
eclectic approach; monitoring and tailoring; an emphasis upon
computer-based information systems; use of program documentation; and
use and dissemination of evaluation results.
The study recorded, documented and analyzed all interactions
between the primary client and the researcher. This analysis identified
and assessed recurring themes in the perceptions and observations
of the researcher regarding the implementation and effectiveness of
the DOERparadigm. It also provided depictions of the primary client
and the researcher's specific interactions. Specific changes in or
the development of program policies were recorded and analyzed to
determine what impact, if any, DOER had upon policy formulation. The
primary client's interview responses were summarized and analyzed to
assess his opinions and perceptions on the effectiveness of DOERin
aiding his policy decisions.
The major findings of this study included: (a) Amethodologically
eclectic approach was needed to address the primary client's information request: (b) In order to use a methodologically eclectic
approach, the researcher should be well-versed in several research
methods and have an adequate knowledge of all the research methods with
a staff or available consultants able to utilize the required or
desired methodology; (c) Computerized information systems are important
for ease of data collection and analyses required when taking a
methodologically eclectic approach; (d) The primary client's use of the
evaluation results was of a conceptual nature--the evaluation findings
influenced the primary client's thinking.
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