The Place of Values in Needs Assessment

Abstract

It is assumed that the delineation of values is critical to proper needs assessments. Need is defined as a requisite or desideratum generated as a discrepancy between a target state (T) and an actual state (A), if and only if the presence of the conditions defined by T can be shown significantly to harm, indispose, or constrain a subject (S): There are at least five points at which value judgments impinge upon'needs determination. They are: (1) the identification of the domain of T: (2) the designation of the particular T to be utilized in determining the discrepancy between T and A: (3) the designation of the difference between T and A that will be regarded as significant: (4) the determination of what shall constitute a benefit under the first of two tests for need candidates: and (5) the determination of what shall constitue an unsatisfactory state under the second of two tests for need cadidates, The process of needs assessment includes: (1) interfacing with stakeholding audiences: (2) carrying out empirical inquiries: (3) identification of need candidates: and (4) testing the need. candidates. Finally the interplay of facts and values in projecting responses to needs is discussed. (RL) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** U E DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. EDUCATION & WELFARE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION THIS DOCUMENT HAS BEEN REPRO. DUCED EXACTLY AS RECEIVED FROM THE PERSON OR ORGANIZATION ORIGIN. A TING IT POINTS OF VIEW OR OPINIONS STATED 00 NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT OFFICIAL NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION POSITION OR POLICY THE PLACE OF VALUES IN NEEDS ASSESSMENT Yvonna S. Lincoln The University of Kansas