Unit+4+Overview

=Unit 4 Program Evaluation Methods and Application=

Whether an evaluator is using a particular evaluation model or form, or being formative or summative in approach, it is necessary to find information on the evaluand - or program being evaluated. In the formal sense, this involves collecting data. As Worthen & Sanders (1987, p. 231) note, "once the evaluation questions are known, the next logical step is to determine what information will enable the evaluator to provide intelligent answers to each question."

Whether it is evaluation questions or program standards that guide data collection depends on the model being implemented and/or the preference of the evaluator. Whichever is used, the only remaining decision is how to collect the data. This involves identifying data sources, getting access to data sources, and selecting data collection methods that will yield the most and the best data. As Patton (1994) notes, practical but creative data collection consists of using whatever resources are available to do the best possible job. Your textbook and other readings in this unit will provide you with information on a number of commonly used data collection methods that can be applied in various evaluation contexts.

Objectives
After completing this unit, you should be able to do the following:
 * 1) Discuss methodological issues pertaining to the various program evaluation forms and models.
 * 2) Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative data, and the complementary use of both data forms in evaluation.
 * 3) Describe when, why, and how to implement the various data collection activities.
 * 4) Develop and provide a rationale for evaluation questions.
 * 5) Develop and justify evaluation standards and criteria.