Program Evaluation
Program Evaluation
- Peter Gabor, Peter GaborUniversity of Calgary
- Richard M. Grinnell Jr.Richard M. Grinnell Jr.Western Michigan University
- and Yvonne A. UnrauYvonne A. UnrauWestern Michigan University
Summary
Program evaluation within social work is essentially a macro-level activity, with a focus that may range from programs within a single organization to programs that operate at the community, county, state, or even national levels. Four main types of program evaluations are: (a) needs assessments, (b) process evaluations, (c) outcome evaluations, and (d) cost-efficiency evaluations. In conducting program evaluations, logic models are useful as they make explicit the theory of the program and how key components relate to each other. Important considerations for evaluators include understanding power relationships within the evaluation process and ensuring that evaluations are culturally appropriate and responsive. Trends and the future of program evaluations within the social work profession concludes the discussion.
Keywords
Subjects
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Updated in this version
Content and references updated for the Encyclopedia of Macro Social Work.
