What are the common types and methods of program evaluation, and when are they appropriate to use?

Program evaluation employs various types and methods to assess effectiveness and inform decision-making. Quantitative methods, such as surveys and statistical analysis, measure numerical data like outcomes and impacts. Qualitative methods, like interviews and focus groups, gather in-depth insights into participant experiences and program processes. Formative evaluation occurs during program development to identify strengths and weaknesses. Summative evaluation assesses overall program impact and outcomes. Process evaluation examines program implementation and fidelity. Context evaluation considers external factors influencing program success. By employing a combination of methods and types, evaluators can provide comprehensive insights

Let's iterate...As a full-time Physician Assistant Educator, formative evaluation is my right-hand colleague. When teaching, coaching, mentoring, learning, delivering patient education, developing, building, or figuring out how to adapt an approach to be a responsive practice-formative evaluation supports refinement of a process. Following implementation of a program, lecture, assessment, etc., I tend to engage in a few specific formative evaluation methods. 1. Personal reflection- allows me to be as honest as possible with myself on how it went. 2. Team debrief with involved colleagues- allows us to share how things went and what can be tweaked or changed. 3. Recipient feedback- ask and listen. Now use new insights and try again.

Common types of program evalyataions are:- 1.Formative - Focus on improvement of design and implementation 2.Subbmitive - Focus on measuring the outcome amd impacts of program 3.Process -Focus on program delivery and operation 4.Outcome- Examines the immediate effects or changes produced by means of the program Each type of evaluation may employ various methods such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and document analysis.The choice of evaluation type and method depends on factors like the program's stage of development, goals, available resources, and the level of detail required to assess its effectiveness comprehensively

I have found feedback sessions and direct-observation to be the most productive formative evaluations - a true "work in progress" evaluation.

- Summative evaluation focuses on evaluating the final results against predetermined objectives. - Summative evaluation typically takes place at the end of the project or program, after all the activities have been completed. - Methods commonly employed in summative evaluation include surveys, questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, observations, and analysis of existing data or records. - Eg. Let's say a government agency implements a public health program to reduce the prevalence of smoking among teenagers & sets specific objectives like decreasing the smoking rate by 20% within a two-year period. As part of their accountability measures, they conduct a summative evaluation at the end of the program to assess its effectiveness & impact.

I wouldn't forget to add here all sorts of stakeholder interviews (which most likely will serve an input to create flowcharts, logic models etc), but it will contain special qualitative feedback which will make the models richer and more contextualized.

The program outcomes can be assessed through: Quantitatively - Savings ($, hours) - ROI (expected vs. captured) - NPS, when applied - Schedule compliance Qualitative: - Perceived quality delivered - Participants/clients opinion

This is your classic "report card" method. It assesses whether the program achieved its intended results. Think standardized tests after an educational program, or recidivism rates after a rehabilitation program. Use this when you have clear goals and want to know if you hit the bullseye.

Developmental evaluation is favored for its adaptability in evolving programs where standard evaluation methods may not apply. It's particularly useful in contexts where innovation is ongoing, environments are complex, and programs must respond to emerging conditions. By providing real-time feedback, it allows for continuous refinement and adjustment, making it ideal for initiatives in their formative stages or when facing unpredictable challenges.

This should also be considered: Making it interactive: Ask a question to encourage readers to share their experiences. Provide examples of program evaluation in different fields to make it relevant. Additional considerations: Discuss common challenges and how to address them (bias, data collection, resources). Emphasize ethical conduct (informed consent, confidentiality). Offer resources for further learning (guides, toolkits, websites). Tailor the evaluation approach to the specific program's goals and context. Beyond the basics: Highlight the role of cost-benefit analysis in program evaluation. Stress the importance of involving stakeholders for a well-rounded evaluation.