Introduction To Program Evaluation Locked Before October

Introduction To Program Evaluationlocked Before Monday October 15 20

Discuss and define at least two descriptions of program evaluation. What is the difference between formative and summative evaluation? Briefly describe a scenario where each one would apply.

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Program evaluation is a systematic process used to assess the design, implementation, and outcomes of a program to determine its effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance. It serves as a critical tool for stakeholders to make informed decisions about continuing, modifying, or terminating programs. There are various ways to describe program evaluation, with two common descriptions being descriptive evaluation and formative/summative evaluation. Descriptive evaluation primarily focuses on providing data and insights about a program's operations without necessarily making judgments about its success. It helps stakeholders understand how a program is functioning, who it's serving, and the resources it consumes. For example, a nonprofit organization might conduct a descriptive evaluation to document the number of clients served and the types of services provided.

In contrast, formative and summative evaluations are closely related but serve different purposes within the evaluation process. Formative evaluation is conducted during the development or implementation of a program. Its goal is to provide ongoing feedback to improve and refine the program as it progresses. Think of formative evaluation as a formative process that shapes the program in real-time. For instance, a new educational curriculum might undergo formative evaluation through teacher and student feedback during its first few months, allowing adjustments to enhance its effectiveness.

Summative evaluation, on the other hand, occurs after a program has been fully implemented and aims to assess its overall impact and effectiveness. It provides an overall judgment about the success or failure of the program, often influencing decisions about continuation or replication. For example, a government agency might conduct a summative evaluation of a public health campaign after its completion to determine if it achieved its intended health outcomes and whether it should be expanded or discontinued.

A scenario illustrating formative evaluation could involve a community development project that regularly collects feedback from participants and staff during its launch phase. The findings are used to make real-time adjustments to improve community engagement and service delivery. Conversely, a summative evaluation scenario might involve a university assessing the effectiveness of a new student mentorship program after its first year, measuring metrics like student retention rates, academic performance, and satisfaction surveys to decide on program continuation or expansion.

Both types of evaluation are essential for comprehensive understanding and improvement of programs. While formative evaluation facilitates immediate improvements, summative evaluation provides the conclusive evidence needed for strategic decisions and accountability. Combining both approaches can enhance the likelihood of a program’s success and sustainability, ensuring that it effectively meets its objectives and serves its target population.

References

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