A call for the results of needs assessment studies conducted in fourteen states in or near the Appalachian Region brought over fifty responses. Analysis of these responses showed that more needs assessment is carried out by bureaus or divisions of research, planning, and evaluation than by central administration or other programmatic divisions. As the intent of most studies was to determine the current status of educational needs, tests and questionnaires served as the prevailing methodologies. Tests were most frequently used to assess needs in specific subject areas, while questionnaires served in studies of a more general nature. This report classifies the needs assessment studies discussed by type of agency, type of office, purpose, length of report, coverage, intended user, and assessment procedure. (Author/PGD)
