Determining the significance or worth of particular programs for mentally retarded students is a critical factor in improving the education of this population. Without careful study and analysis of program quality, future delivery of services risks mediocre growth. In this interview Laurence Sargent discusses the need for public service programs to be effective, accountable, and provide a return on the public investment. As Consultant on Mental Disabilities for the Iowa Department of Public Instruction, Dr. Sargent proposes certain quality practice statements as criteria against which delivery of service can be measured. He shows how a state education agency can view evaluation as a way of providing leadership to local education agencies. Prior to his present position, Dr.Sargent taught in the School of Special Education and Rehabilitation at the University of Northern Colorado. He has served as the Evaluator of Special Education Teacher Training Programs at the University of Northern Iowa, the University of Dubuque, and Drake University. He has also been a classroom teacher of learning disabled and mentally retarded children. Dr.Sargent earned a master's degree in special education from California State University in 1976 and a doctorate in special education administration from the University of Northern Colorado in 1979. He has served as past president of the AAMD Iowa Chapter 1982 and of the CEC Greeley, Colorado Chapter 381.
M. Angele Thomas (Fri,) studied this question.