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Program Evaluation Project (Individual) |
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In
order to learn how to apply the theories and concepts from the readings,
students will also complete a Program Evaluation Project. You have three options for completing the assignment: |
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Conduct an empirical study that evaluates a policy or program; or |
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Research Design for a policy or program; or |
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Conduct a systematic review (e.g., meta-analysis) of
a set of evaluation studies
examining a specific policy/program. |
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The course website describes the requirements associated with each
option in greater detail. Regardless of the option selected, students
will be required to complete two short written assignments based on the
policy or program. First, students will be required to submit a short 1
-2 page Program Memo that summarizes the program, problem, intervention,
and intended beneficiaries. The Measurement Memo uses the program’s
causal model/program logic/theory developed in the first memo to specify
the research questions, operational definitions, and specific measures
used to gauge program success. While ungraded, your effort on these
assignments will be factored into your participation grades. The memos
will also provide a chance to provide constructive feedback prior to
submitting the final report. |
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Written Report |
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All students will then prepare a final report consistent with the
options chosen. It should be professional in appearance and
include: The report is expected to be clear,
concise, and professional. It should communicate your findings
effectively to your client. |
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Cover |
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Table
of contents |
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Executive
summary |
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Page numbers |
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Running header and footer |
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Main
body of the evaluation report (e.g., discussion of program, the
causal model/program logic/theory, research questions/hypotheses,
research design, data collection, data analysis procedures, and
where applicable findings and conclusions) |
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Supporting
tables and figures |
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A bibliography with at
least 10 references |
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Any required appendices or supporting
materials. |
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Final reports will probably be around 25 double-spaced pages in length
but will vary based on the option, program, and analysis.
Reports done by groups are expected to reflect
the higher level of work devoted to the project.
This website also provides useful style guidelines
(Click here),
although any generally accepted format is acceptable. |
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| Presentation |
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All students will presenter their evaluation reports in class.
Students will have 10 minutes for your presentation. Your
presentation should be designed as if you were briefing a potential funder or evaluation sponsor.
The quality of your presentation will be factored
into the grade for the final report. |
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