Overarching Components
Evaluation
When done well, evaluation is an integral part of the program from the beginning to the end.
Information from the Analysis phase will help program planners Set Clear Goals and Outcomes, which will, in turn, dictate the systems and processes needed to Track Basic Participation and Demographic Data.
Once the initiative is underway, there are two types of evaluation: formative and summative. Formative evaluation is the process that takes a close look at how the program is implemented in order for there to be continuous improvement in the program’s design, development and implementation. This is often very helpful if there are multiple iterations of a program prior to its final implementation. Summative evaluation, on the other hand, typically occurs after the final version of instruction is implemented and is focused on assessing the overall effectiveness of a program and whether it lived up to expectations (Braxton, Bronico, & Looms, 2006). The information from a summative evaluation is important when you need to make a case for a program’s continued funding and to contribute to the field’s understanding of best practices. Programs with good summative results stand the best chance to attract funding and to invite replication.
Key Components include: