Identifying the audience for program evaluation
identifying the audience for program evaluation is a challenging but essential skill. Different audiences will have different needs and interpret findings in various ways. It is vital that researchers know their intended audience and what their audience needs from the presentation of research. Some audiences respond better to visual presentations. Others respond better to statistics. Chapter 16 in your course text suggests a five-step procedure for audience analysis that may be helpful in properly identifying the needs of your audience.
While audiences may differ, one of the most effective ways to communicate with audiences is to clearly explain how the research was conducted and emphasize the most important findings from an objective and neutral point of view. While you may alter the presentation of results to better communicate with your audience, you must never change the results to accommodate them.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Think about the evaluation design you used to evaluate the program, problem, or policy you selected for your Final Evaluation Design (Final Project).
Think about the potential audiences for your Final Evaluation Design.
Consider how you would present your results effectively so these potential audiences understand and appreciate them.
Sample Solution
To identify the target audience and the purpose of the assessment, you need to answer the important question, “Who are the main users of the results and how are they involved?” It is important to consider the potential outcomes and the needs of policy makers and other stakeholders. Assessment results and reports need to be tailored to the requirements of different target groups. The purpose of the assessment should reflect the information needs of different stakeholders. Assessments and impact assessments are important when they are implemented to meet the needs and expectations of your target audience and ensure the desired level of robustness in your results and reviews.
