Final answer:
Public hearings and community forums are not considered methods of needs assessments in market research as they do not effectively gather data on consumer behavior or provide generalized market insights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public hearings and community forums are indeed methods used in urban planning, social work, and environmental science to assess community needs and assets. In urban planning, these methods help in understanding the needs of the community regarding infrastructure, housing, transportation, and public spaces. In social work, they can aid in identifying the services and support needed by different populations within a community. Within the scope of environmental science, such forums contribute to recognizing the environmental concerns and aspirations of the public. However, in market research, public hearings and community forums are not usually considered methods of needs assessment because they do not typically serve a practical purpose for assessing consumer behavior or generalizing market trends.
The Nielsen Ratings, being an example of scientific market research, differs from polls conducted by television programs like American Idol which target a specific audience and hence, cannot be generalized for market research. A needs assessment in market research often involves surveys or studies that focus on consumer behavior, purchase patterns, and preferences to inform product development and marketing strategies.