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ED 712 equipped us with essential skills for conducting program evaluations, which involve systematic, data-driven assessments to determine if programs or policies are meeting their intended goals. Through evaluation, we learned how to decide whether a program should be continued, modified, expanded, or discontinued. The course introduced a range of advanced research designs and methodologies critical for evaluating the effectiveness of organizational policies and initiatives. With a series of scaffolded assignments, each student developed a thorough program evaluation plan, gaining practical experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. These assignments taught us how to set both short- and long-term goals, select suitable research methods, use metrics effectively, and craft strategies for program improvements. Ultimately, the course empowered us to make informed decisions and present evidence-based recommendations to stakeholders and decision-makers.
CA4.1_LarcinM.pdf4.1 Logic Model
4.1 Logic Model
For this critical assignment, we were tasked with creating an evaluation plan based on a logic model for a program we designed to address a specific issue, policy, or challenge within an organization of our choice. In this scenario, we assumed the role of program leaders and evaluators, responsible for not only designing and implementing a new initiative but also developing a comprehensive strategy to assess its effectiveness. This assignment required us to apply problem-solving and leadership skills, focusing on creating a meaningful program that could lead to positive organizational change while ensuring that its outcomes are measurable and aligned with the intended goals.
CA6.1_LarcinM.pdf6.1 Evaluation Matrix Plan
6.1 Evaluation Matrix Plan
For this assignment, we were required to complete an Evaluation Matrix Plan that aligns with the logic model we developed in Critical Assignment 4.1: Logic Model. The task involved ensuring clear connections between our strategies, objectives, and goals from the logic model and the evaluation components, including evaluation questions, indicators, targets, data sources, data collection methods, and data analysis plans. This process challenged us to think critically and expand beyond textbook examples, especially in specifying how data would be collected and analyzed to ensure a thorough and meaningful evaluation of our program.
CA10.1_LarcinM.pdf10.1 Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
10.1 Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
For this critical assignment, we built upon our completed Evaluation Matrix from Assignment 6.1 to develop a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan that includes both a chart of action items and a narrative explanation. We were required to identify at least four key action items from our strategies, early objectives, or intermediate objectives—focusing on the most critical areas to monitor throughout the program's implementation. This process helped ensure we clearly defined priority areas for ongoing evaluation and provided a structured approach to tracking the program’s progress and effectiveness.
CA11.1_LarcinM.pdf11.1 Communications Plan
11.1 Communications Plan
For this critical assignment, we were tasked with designing a Communications Plan for our program evaluation, focusing on how to effectively share progress updates and final results with various stakeholders. We identified at least five different audiences, assessed their connection to the program, and determined what information they would need and how best to communicate it. The plan included both a narrative and a chart, outlining the reporting methods, timelines, and responsible parties for delivering evaluation findings, ensuring that communication is clear, timely, and tailored to each audience's needs.
CA13.1_LarcinM.pdf13.1 Dissemination Plan
13.1 Dissemination Plan
For this critical assignment, we expanded on our Communications Plan by developing a Dissemination Plan, focusing on how to effectively share evaluation results with stakeholders and measure the success of that dissemination. We revisited the five identified audiences and their respective reporting measures from the previous plan, outlining potential challenges, success criteria, and the feedback we aimed to collect from each group. This plan allowed us to think critically about how to analyze and share feedback while considering the impact of that process on stakeholder engagement and the influence of the evaluation results.
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