Planning and Managing Evaluations Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the definition of evaluation according to Michael Scriven?
Systematic investigation of the merit, worth, or significance of an ‘object’.
This definition emphasizes the systematic nature of evaluation in assessing value.
How does Weiss Carol define evaluation?
Systematic assessment of a program or policy’s operation/outcomes against standards for improvement.
This definition focuses on the operational and outcome aspects of programs.
What is a systematic way to determine the value of a program or activity?
Evaluation.
This highlights the core function of evaluation in assessing value.
What should be focused on when planning an evaluation?
Information Needs.
Understanding what information is necessary is crucial for decision-making.
What resources should be considered in evaluation planning?
Available resources to ensure efficient planning.
This includes human, financial, and material resources.
What are key considerations in evaluation?
Nature of Intervention, Size and Scope, Clarity of Purpose, Evaluation Purpose, Scope of Effects, User Perspectives, Audience Identification, Information Needs, Information Sources, Data Collection Methods, Timeline for Information, Available Resources.
Each of these factors plays a critical role in shaping the evaluation process.
What is one key question to consider in evaluations?
What am I going to evaluate?
This question sets the foundation for the evaluation focus.
What are the four standards of evaluation?
Utility, Feasibility, Propriety, Accuracy.
These standards guide the quality and effectiveness of the evaluation.
What does the utility standard in evaluation refer to?
Information needs of intended users.
This ensures that the evaluation provides relevant information for decision-making.
What is the purpose of feasibility in evaluation?
Realistic evaluation activities based on available resources.
This helps in planning achievable evaluation tasks.
What does propriety in evaluation ensure?
Ethical conduct of the evaluation.
This standard emphasizes the ethical dimensions of conducting evaluations.
What is the significance of accuracy in evaluation?
Ensuring valid and reliable findings.
This is critical for the credibility of evaluation results.
What are the critical aspects of evaluation methodology?
Initiation of evaluation, Formulation and proposal, Reviewing existing knowledge, Finalizing design and methods, Data collection, Data analysis and reporting, Judging value and deciding action, Evaluator self-review.
These steps outline the structured approach to conducting evaluations.
What is a goals-based evaluation?
Assessing program goals and progress.
This type of evaluation focuses on whether the intended goals are being met.
What characterizes an outcome-based evaluation?
Identifying and measuring key outcomes.
This focuses on the results achieved by the program.
What does process-based evaluation assess?
Evaluating the implementation process.
This type of evaluation looks at how well a program is being executed.
What does economic evaluation involve?
Cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analysis.
This evaluates the financial implications of a program.
What are some common conceptual pitfalls in evaluations?
Defining success and contextual variability, Linear models of change, Neglecting health equity considerations.
These pitfalls can lead to misinterpretation of evaluation outcomes.
What methodological pitfalls can occur in evaluations?
Attribution of impact and selection bias, Data gaps and quality issues, Complexity of mixed methods.
These issues can compromise the validity of the evaluation results.
What ethical pitfalls should be considered in evaluations?
Informed consent and privacy concerns, Power dynamics in marginalized communities, Unintended consequences of evaluations.
These ethical considerations are crucial for protecting participants.
What political pitfalls can affect evaluations?
Political interference and funding dependencies, Stakeholder conflicts and accountability pressures.
These factors can influence the evaluation process and outcomes.
How can one overcome pitfalls in evaluations?
Systems Thinking, Ethical Guidelines, Independence in Evaluation, Inclusive Methodologies.
These strategies promote a more effective and ethical evaluation process.
What is informed consent in the context of evaluation?
Ensure participants understand the evaluation process and data usage.
This is a fundamental ethical requirement in research.
What does confidentiality in evaluation entail?
Clearly convey terms regarding access to evaluation results.
This protects the privacy of participants and sensitive information.
