2.1 Program evaluation slides

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts in program evaluation as covered in the lecture.

Program Evaluation

A systematic, scientific inquiry used to assess programs to improve their effectiveness and efficiency.

Outputs

Tangible results of a program, such as the number of participants served.

Outcomes

The effects of a program on its participants, typically aimed at behavior change.

Theory of Change

Conceptual framework that outlines the process by which a program is expected to achieve its intended outcomes.

Logic Model

A visual representation that shows the relationship between inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and resources required for a program.

Formative Evaluation

Assessment conducted during the development or adaptation of a program to improve its design and performance.

Summative Evaluation

Assessment conducted after program implementation to determine effectiveness and outcomes achieved.

Attribution

Determining whether a program has caused the intended outcomes.

Efficiency (in evaluation)

Assessing how cost-effective a program is relative to its outcomes.

Stakeholders

Individuals or groups that have an interest or stake in the outcome of a program evaluation.

Cross-Cutting Actions

Strategies implemented to support strong evaluations, such as advancing equity and engaging collaboratively.

Relevance and Utility

Ensuring that evaluation findings provide useful information for stakeholders.

Standards for High Quality Evaluation

Criteria that ensure evaluations are conducted with rigor, transparency, and ethics.

Assessment of Context

Understanding the environment and conditions surrounding a program before evaluation.

Evaluation Capacity

The resources, skills, and support necessary to conduct a program evaluation effectively.

Gathering Evidence

The process of collecting credible data to answer evaluation questions.

Generating Conclusions

The step of analyzing data and interpreting findings to inform program decisions.

Action on Findings

The process of sharing evaluation results and using insights to drive program improvement.

Inputs

Resources needed to implement a program, such as funding, staff, and materials.

Activities

Actions taken as part of a program to achieve its planned outcomes.

Short-term Outcomes

Immediate changes in knowledge, skills, and attitudes resulting from program activities.

Intermediate Outcomes

Changes in behavior that occur after short-term outcomes are achieved.

Long-term Outcomes

Eventual changes in life conditions and broader impacts of a program.

Program Implementation Evaluation

Assessment to determine whether the program is delivered as intended.

Contribution

Identifying the factors that contribute to observed outcomes from a program.

Program Fidelity

The degree to which a program is delivered as planned.

Evidence-based Practice

Using data and findings from evaluations to inform decision-making and improve programs.

Collaboration

Working together with stakeholders to design and implement evaluations.

Community Characteristics

Social, political, and organizational factors influencing a program's context.

Program Goals

Broad statements about what a program aims to achieve.

Program Objectives

Specific, measurable actions intended to meet program goals.

Ethics in Evaluation

Conducting evaluations in a fair, responsible, and respectful manner, considering impacts on stakeholders.

Evaluation Questions

Specific queries guiding the evaluation process to assess program effectiveness and relevance.

CDC Program Evaluation Framework

A structured approach developed by the CDC to guide program evaluation processes.