Evaluation of self-instructional programs calls for a practical procedure which is consistent with the available information from scientific research studies and field reports. In order to aid teachers, principals, curriculum specialists, and other school administrators who may be unacquainted with the area, this book begins its development of a guideline with a general introduction to programed instruction. Included in the discussion are the historical and theoretical background of programed instruction, the availability, classroom uses, advantages and limitations of self-instructional programs, and the role of the teaching machine. In screening a program for a specific use, it is suggested that the first source of information be the manual which is supplied by the publisher to accompany the program. From this material an evaluation can be made of the program itself and its suitability for the curriculum. Research and field reports are suggested as a source of information about the program's effectiveness. These programs which have survived the preliminary screening may then be evaluated to assess their potential within the context of a given set of students, teachers, other instructional techniques employed, and desired instructional outcomes. (JY)