Systematic Dissemination of Research and Development Program Improvement Efforts.

A systematic approach to disseminaton of vocational education research and development program improvement efforts is comprehensive, effective, and efficient. Systematic dissemination is a prerequisite link to assessing impact of research and development--for program improvement to occur, successful dissemination is crucial. A systematic approach to dissemination requires an operational definition of dissemination; development of individual dissemination plans; and coordination, cooperation, and collaboration among persons involved in the dissemination process. To promote use and consequently program improvement, dissemination activities must be planned, conducted, and followed-up. Dissemination planning is continuous; it must be incorporated in project proposals, revised as needed during the course of the project, and stepped up at the conclusion of the project so that project results do not become one more report on a recipient's bookshelf. All persons involved in the dissemination process--funding agency staff, project staff, networks/agencies that link funders/developers and target audiences, and target audiences--must cooperate. Each of these groups has its own role, and each reaps particular benefits from the dissemination effort. Further information on vocational education research and development dissemination can be found in the Illinois Research and Development Section's "Dissemination Planning Outline" in the "Request for Program Improvement Proposals in Vocational Education." (KC)