Discussion: Process Evaluation Purpose and Timing

Order Instructions

Discussion: Process Evaluation Purpose and Timing

The steps for process evaluation are very similar to those for other types of evaluation; in fact, the purpose and timing of a process evaluation are the elements that most distinguish it. A process evaluation is conducted during the implementation phase of the program to evaluate whether it is being implemented as intended and how delivery can be improved. A process evaluation can also be useful in supporting an outcome evaluation by helping to determine the reason behind program outcomes.

In this Discussion, you review a process evaluation research study and look closely at its timing within the implementation phase, considering whether a different timing would have led to different information.

To Prepare

Review the text chapter and informational websites about process evaluation in the Learning Resources.

Review the research articles focusing on process evaluation in the Learning Resources. Select one that produced valuable information and that you would like to analyze for this Discussion.

By Day 3

Identify the process evaluation article that you chose and explain why you selected this example.

Describe the purpose of the evaluation, the informants, the questions asked, and the results of the evaluation.

Identify the stage of program implementation in which the evaluation was conducted.

Consider why the researchers chose to evaluate at that stage of program implementation. What kind of information would they have received if they had conducted the evaluation earlier or later?

If you were to replicate the study, would you adjust it in any way for more optimal results?

By Day 6

Respond to at least two colleagues who chose a different process evaluation than you did. Respectfully agree or disagree with their analysis of the timing of the process evaluation and their proposal for adjustments.