How can you use program evaluation to ensure a fair and equitable program?

To begin with, it was very important to know the objective where what will be an outcome is very clear, it should sink with logic, needs of the user and expectation, should be very clear. There should be a strategy to differentiate from others. And when you have the answer to all, build a strategy as to how you will reach it to your TG.

In my early career, I was entrusted to develop a community program for default TB patients in Karachi. a-The first step was to have clear objective of reducing the default cases b-I used formative evaluation approach(FGD's & IDI's) to know insights/concerns for not coming for the required treatment to the treatment centers. c- based on insights, I along with my team adjusted the program parameters in line with the recommendations from the patients to make program more effective, efficient and most importantly sustainable. d- A summative evaluation was exercised quarterly with all stakeholders involved to assess fairness and equity. e- After an analysis, we were able to identify aspects of the program most impactful and adjustments needed

An equitable program is one that is designed, implemented, and achieves its goals while considering the impact across different groups. To achieve this, it's important to use program evaluation strategies that focus on equity. Here are some key strategies to use program evaluation for this purpose: 1. Define Fairness and Equity Goals 2. Incorporate Equity into the Evaluation Design 3. Collect Data with an Equity Lens 4. Analyze for Equity 5. Report Findings with Transparency 6. Act on Evaluation Findings 7. Build Capacity for Equity-focused Evaluation 8. Iterative Improvement and Stakeholder Feedback 9. Document and Share Learnings

I start by considering how the evaluation can address fairness and equity. Craft questions that explore how the program affects different demographic groups and how well it serves them.

At a prestigious annual industry conference, We set out to implement a comprehensive assessment strategy. The tools were: 1) Pre-event Surveys (Quantitative Method) 2) Accessibility Assessments (Qualitative Method) 3) Feedback Forms (Quantitative and Qualitative Method) 4) Focus Groups (Qualitative Method) By utilizing a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods, we gained comprehensive insights into the attendee experience, ensuring that the event was accessible and inclusive for all. Armed with data-driven insights, we could make informed decisions to enhance future events, upholding principles of fairness and equity in the event industry.

A tool that allows you to disaggregate results by relevant demographic characteristics like race, gender, income, etc. This helps identify disparities in how program benefits are distributed. As simple as a web form filling up an Excel sheet.

Ensuring fairness and equity in your program evaluation means picking the right tools and methods with care. Blend quantitative and qualitative approaches to capture the full spectrum of your program's impact. It's like putting together a puzzle, using pieces from different angles to get the complete picture. Triangulate your data to make your findings as solid as a rock. Be mindful to choose methods that respect cultural nuances, uphold ethical standards, and include everyone's voice, especially the marginalized or overlooked. This way, your evaluation not only measures success but also champions inclusivity and empowerment. Let's make every evaluation count towards building a fairer, more equitable program. ???

it's time to collect and analyze your data, ensuring that your data is of high quality, securely stored, and kept confidential. Let's break down what this means in simpler terms: Collecting Data Ensuring Data Quality Data Security and Confidentiality Organizing and Coding Data Interpreting Data Identifying Opportunities and Challenges By following these principles of good data management and applying a critical lens to your data analysis, you can gain valuable insights into your program's effectiveness and identify opportunities for growth and development.

I don't rely solely on surveys or standardized tests. Consider using qualitative methods like interviews or focus groups to capture the lived experiences of participants from different backgrounds. This provides a richer understanding of potential barriers faced by certain groups.

Program evaluation ensures fairness and equity by systematically assessing program design, implementation, and outcomes, collecting data on effectiveness and impact, considering demographic factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status, incorporating feedback from participants and stakeholders, and making informed decisions to address any identified disparities or biases. This process enables managers to promote fairness in program delivery, resource allocation, and service provision, ensuring that the program remains responsive to the diverse needs of individuals and communities it serves while enabling ongoing adjustments to enhance equity and effectiveness.