Program Evaluation
Program Evaluation, What Is “It”?
Program evaluation: What is “it” and how do I know if “it” is working?
These questions cross the mind of almost every person involved in the evaluation process. Whether it is a family filling out a survey or a teacher logging assessment results, the questions of “what am I doing?” and “why?” are very common. In fact, the Early childhood program evaluations: A decision-maker’s guide (presented in this module’s Learning Resources), places the question, “Does ‘it’ work?” at the root of all program evaluations. Their research indicates that no matter the evaluation form, the focus of “what” is to be evaluated and whether the program is succeeding at “it” will prove to be at the forefront of all evaluation discussions, decisions, and stakeholder communications.
In this Discussion, you explore the many forms of and approaches for evaluating a program. You also consider how evaluation provides early childhood programs with meaningful information on program quality.
To prepare
Review the Early childhood program evaluations: A decision-maker’s guide, reflecting on the question, “Does ‘it’ work?” Then, explore the measurement tools overview provided by the National Center on Parent, Family, and Community Engagement to identify the many forms of and approaches for effectively evaluating program quality.
Sample Solution
Many programs and interventions have been developed around the world to improve the conditions in local communities. To name a few examples, communities gather together to minimize the level of violence that exists, to work for secure, affordable housing for all, and to assist more students succeed in school. But how can we tell if these programs are effective? How can we enhance them to make them better for local communities if they aren’t effective, and even if they are? Finally, how can a nonprofit make informed decisions about which prospective projects are most likely to succeed in their community?
