Evaluation-based planning of professional psychology training program: A model and case example

Abstract

To cope with the current diversity and centrifugal trends in our field, the National Conference on Graduate Education in Psychology recently proposed that each department and school of psychology conduct a self-study to clarify its goals, values, and curricular emphases. This article provides a blueprint to enable programs in any area of applied or professional psychology to engage in such a process of intensive self-scrutiny. The model adopted is based chiefly on four features of organizational development: open systems theory, the distinction between process and task emphases, democratic values, and action research. A case example is provided to illustrate how application of the model helps to insure the active collaboration of faculty, students, and alumni, resulting in a ready acceptance and implementation of recommended curricular changes.