Program Evaluation Resources
The key to a successful program or project is evaluation.
Evaluation provides formative feedback that helps guide a program as it is
being implemented. It also provides summative data that clearly
demonstrates that the program is accomplishing its stated goals and objectives.
Without effective evaluation, the program staff may fail to document
important impacts the program has on its participants. It may also fail to
recognize how different components in the program are affecting the
participants or participating institutions. In addition, evaluation helps
focus staff efforts and project resources on the specific goals of the
program. Without written goals and specific objectives, the staff members
often direct their individual efforts toward slightly different goals,
thereby reducing the efficiency of the overall program. In an era where
resources for educational programs are limited, those programs that can
document their success in having an impact on their participants and in
using resources efficiently will be at an advantage for ongoing funding.
With support from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, the
APS developed an interactive online and CD-based course on basic
evaluation techniques. The online course is free and the CD-based course
is available for a nominal fee.
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