Deck 13: A: Using Research in the Real World: How Do You Know If You Are Truly Helping

Question 1

Describe the four steps of the program evaluation process.

Answer 1

The first step is the planning phase,which focuses on identifying individuals who will use the evaluation and who will benefit from it;specifically,key stakeholders.The second step involves collecting information about the program or organization's mission and specific goals,the nature of the program and services delivered and what type of clientele the program caters to.The third step identifies what the evaluation hopes to accomplish,the steps needed to do so,and how the organization hopes to use the evaluation's results.Finally,a researcher would formulate and describe a plan that outlines that overall evaluation's design.

Question 2

What is the overall purpose of program evaluation and how can it be helpful in qualitative research paradigms?

Answer 2

A program evaluation is a scientific method to assess whether an organized activity,corporation,group,or any other organized body is achieving its intended objectives and goals.There are a variety of different types of program evaluations,including needs evaluations,outcomes evaluations,and process evaluations.Program evaluation is helpful in qualitative research because there is flexibility in choosing the most appropriate evaluation method and it is geared to be used with interpreting and handling qualitative data.

Question 3

Describe the differences between needs evaluation,process evaluation,and outcomes evaluation.

Answer 3

A needs evaluation is an assessment to determine which features or aspects of a program or group are the most valuable and beneficial,as well as what areas need improvement and resources.A process evaluation assesses the overall program operation,more specifically who the program services,what clientele it is appropriate for,and what types of service deliveries have been implemented.An outcomes evaluation determines whether a program effectively produces outcomes that are consistent with the organization's overarching objectives and goals.

Question 4

Develop an example of a study that would benefit from using a focus group.

Question 5

Describe the difference between a single sample t-test and a dependent means t-test.