Abstract
Youth programs are prime contexts for the intentional facilitation of positive development. However, not all youth programs achieve positive outcomes equally. In order to promote the identification and dissemination of the characteristics and processes of effective youth programs, increased focus needs to be given to program evaluation. This article briefly reviews the main tenets of evaluation science in order to provide practitioners a roadmap for conducting their own evaluations. This includes an overview of different types of evaluations and key issues to consider when constructing an evaluation strategy such as targeting outcomes and developing program logic models.
Highlights
Programming is a central component of positive youth development (PYD; Whitlock & Hamilton, 2001, as cited in Small & Memmo, 2004)
This focus on quality programming and positive outcomes requires a stronger emphasis on program evaluation (Catalano, Berglund, Ryan, Lonczak, & Hawkins, 2002)
Drawing from the work of Rossi, Lipsey and Freeman (2004) and others, this paper presents an overview of the field of evaluation science and offers suggestions for how practitioners can evaluate their own programs
Summary
Programming is a central component of positive youth development (PYD; Whitlock & Hamilton, 2001, as cited in Small & Memmo, 2004). Youth programs are one of the key contexts in which adolescents can receive the necessary supports, opportunities, and services that they need to develop into fully functioning adults (Furstenberg, Elder, Cook, & Eccles, 2000; Whitlock, 2004). This focus on quality programming and positive outcomes requires a stronger emphasis on program evaluation (Catalano, Berglund, Ryan, Lonczak, & Hawkins, 2002). Drawing from the work of Rossi, Lipsey and Freeman (2004) and others, this paper presents an overview of the field of evaluation science and offers suggestions for how practitioners can evaluate their own programs
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
