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Choosing an Evaluation Processes

Objectives & Outcomes

Defining the objectives and outcomes associated with an evaluation determines whether or not you start moving in the right direction.

There has been a long debate in industrial psychology on defining the outcomes of a given project or program - the criteria against which evaluation was likely to take place. But in other areas there have been alternative approaches. For example, in social policy there has been what is called theory-driven evaluation thinking (eg Chen 1990).

Lets think in terms of a sequential process:

Have you defined the objectives for the program or unit?

Articulate these as 'measurable' entities
(where measurable is qualitative and/or quantitative)

What is the time frame you are using to attain these objectives?

(Are there intermediate points that are significant or is it geared to a particular point?) Define the key points in a way that links the objectives to a time line

What are the 'measurable' outcomes expected of the program/unit?

Articulate the outcomes so that they can be assessed through an appropriate methodology.

What is the timeframe associated with these outcomes?

Again, define key points that link outcomes and time.

How does the program interface with other elements in the system?

The program is unlikely to be a stand-alone activity. Students will be doing other subjects; subjects will have influences on their likely behaviour.
You must define the obvious points of contact and interface with these other activities. This may be as basic as the impact of the end-of-semester assessments on your unit. Define how these interfaces could influence attainment of objectives and outcomes.

What are the objectives of the evaluation process?

You have defined what is happening and when it is happening, now you define why you are doing the evaluation.

How do the objectives and outcomes of the program/unit link to the objectives of the evaluation?

When you complete this process you will have a clear picture of where you are going.