A Conceptual Scheme for Describing and Evaluating Programs in Behavioral Disorders

Abstract

This article describes a conceptual scheme for guiding comprehensive program description and evaluation in the field of behavioral disorders. Developed systematically over a three-year period with the assistance of numerous professionals from the field, the conceptual scheme presented herein identifies eight essential program components for well-designed district-wide service delivery: philosophy, student needs and identification, goals, instructional methods and curriculum, community involvement, program design and operation, exit procedures, and evaluation.