|
B.
Determine Evaluation Questions
It is impossible to evaluate every aspect of a program, nor would
it be useful to do so. It is important to consider what is
important to evaluate and what will be done with evaluation
information. Evaluations should be simple and practical. The
following table provides some examples of the relationship
between evaluation questions and the use of answers to these
questions.
Relationship
of Evaluation Questions to Use of Answers
|
Evaluation Questions |
Use of Evaluation Answers |
| 1. Who is using the program (by age, race, ethnicity, income,
place of residence, insurance status, oral health status, type
of service)? |
1. Determine whether the program is reaching
target audience. If it is not, revise outreach efforts. |
| 2. What is the level of satisfaction of those using the program
(by age, race, ethnicity, income, place of residence, insurance
status, oral health status, type of service)? |
2. Determine whether the program is meeting needs as perceived
by users. If it is not, revise program strategies. |
| 3. What are the relationships between program participation
and positive changes in oral health status (by age, race, ethnicity,
income, place of residence, insurance status, oral health status,
type of service)? |
3. Determine whether the program is achieving desired results.
If it is not, review and revise program structure and strategies. |
The Community Tool Box, Introduction to Evaluation is
a useful resource that not only provides a comprehensive overview
of evaluation
of community programs but also presents a series of tools and checklists
that are helpful in designing and conducting evaluations.
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