This report describes the methodology used in an evaluation study to measure the effectiveness of the West End Special Education Local Plan Area's program for improving the transition of special needs students from secondary school into adult life. Goals of the San Bernardino, California, study included measuring students' quality of life upon their leaving school and annually thereafter; reporting on students' status; evaluating the effectiveness of the transition program based on this information; and recommending modifications to the program. The program's concept of quality of life is described, including such variables as occupational placement/maintenance, income level, continued education, community leisure, transportation, residential arrangements, advocacy arrangements, medical/health needs, and personal/social adjustment. The research design is then explained, which involved collecting data from each student's Individual Education Plan; conducting a teacher exit questionnaire, a student exit questionnaire, and a student follow-up questionnaire; and computer analysis. Analysis of answers to the questionnaires suggests changes are needed in the questions asked due to inconsistencies or lack of clarity. It is concluded that program improvement requires several years of longitudinal study to allow comparison of these transition elements with short-term and long-term achieved quality of life. Appendices include examples of questionnaires and questionnaire responses. Contains 35 references. (BRM)