After a program is identified for evaluation with an identifiable problem, a research design must be identified. The design describes the purpose(s) and method(s) of evaluation. The design identifies the specific ways in which the evaluator will collect and analyze data relevant to program efficacy (i.e., whether program outputs are aligned with the program’s express purpose/mission).
In 1,750-2,000 words, do the following:
- Evaluation questions and their justifications from Topic 1. This section should include edits based on feedback from your instructor.
- Explain data collection procedures.
- Describe reporting procedures.
- Describe quantitative methods.
- Describe qualitative methods.
- Compare why one method may be a better fit for the evaluation.
Full Answer Section
The justifications for these evaluation questions are as follows:
- RQ1: This question is important because it helps to determine the overall impact of the program. It is also important to identify any unintended outcomes, as these may need to be addressed. For example, if the program is intended to increase student achievement, but it also has the unintended consequence of increasing dropout rates, then this is important information to know.
- RQ2: This question is important because it helps to put the program in context. It is also important to identify any areas where the program could be improved. For example, if the program is similar to other programs that have been shown to be effective, then this is a good sign. However, if the program is similar to other programs that have not been shown to be effective, then this is a cause for concern.
- RQ3: This question is important because it helps to get feedback from the people who are most affected by the program. It is also important to identify any areas where the program could be improved. For example, if participants are not satisfied with the program, then this is a sign that the program may need to be modified.
Data Collection Procedures
The following data collection procedures will be used to answer the evaluation questions:
- Surveys: Surveys will be used to collect data from participants about their perceptions of the program.
- Interviews: Interviews will be conducted with participants, staff, and stakeholders to get more in-depth information about the program.
- Document review: Documents related to the program will be reviewed to get a better understanding of its goals, objectives, and implementation.
Reporting Procedures
The evaluation findings will be reported in a written report that will be submitted to the program stakeholders. The report will include the following sections:
- Executive summary: This section will provide a brief overview of the evaluation findings.
- Evaluation questions: This section will list the evaluation questions that were addressed.
- Data collection procedures: This section will describe the data collection procedures that were used.
- Findings: This section will present the evaluation findings.
- Conclusions and recommendations: This section will summarize the conclusions of the evaluation and provide recommendations for improvement.
Quantitative Methods
Quantitative methods will be used to analyze the data collected from the surveys and interviews. These methods will allow for the identification of trends and patterns in the data. For example, quantitative methods can be used to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in the perceptions of the program between participants and staff.
In addition to quantitative methods,
qualitative methods will also be used to analyze the data collected from the document review. These methods will allow for the in-depth exploration of the data and the identification of themes and patterns. For example, qualitative methods can be used to understand the reasons why participants are satisfied or dissatisfied with the program.
The combination of quantitative and qualitative methods will provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the program and its impact.
Sample Answer
Evaluation Questions and Their Justifications
The following are the evaluation questions and their justifications for a program evaluation:
- RQ1: What are the intended and unintended outcomes of the program?
This question is important because it helps to determine the overall impact of the program. It is also important to identify any unintended outcomes, as these may need to be addressed.
- RQ2: How does the program compare to other similar programs?
This question is important because it helps to put the program in context. It is also important to identify any areas where the program could be improved.
- RQ3: How do participants perceive the program?
This question is important because it helps to get feedback from the people who are most affected by the program. It is also important to identify any areas where the program could be improved.