In this discussion, you will present your ideas for your program evaluation proposal for faculty and peer feedback. This discussion is a comprehensive one and should be at least 300–400 words. Instructions Complete the following:
As an advanced student in program evaluation, it is crucial to carefully plan and outline a proposal to ensure a successful evaluation. In this discussion, I will present my ideas for a program evaluation proposal and seek feedback from faculty and peers.
For my program evaluation proposal, I have chosen to evaluate a community-based mental health program aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and providing support to individuals with mental illness. This program is in place in a local community center and has been running for three years.
The purpose of this evaluation is to assess the effectiveness of the program in achieving its goals, identify areas for improvement, and provide recommendations for program enhancement. To conduct this evaluation, I will employ a mixed-methods approach incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.
For the quantitative component, I will utilize pre- and post-intervention surveys to measure changes in individuals’ attitudes towards mental health and stigma reduction. These surveys will consist of questions assessing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to mental health. By comparing the results before and after participation in the program, I will be able to determine the program’s impact on changing perceptions and reducing stigma.
In addition to the surveys, I will also conduct focus group interviews with program participants to gather qualitative data. These interviews will provide a deeper understanding of participants’ experiences with the program and allow them to share their thoughts and suggestions for improvement. Through the analysis of these interviews, I will be able to identify any themes or patterns that emerge, which will further inform the evaluation findings.
To ensure the quality of the evaluation, I will follow established standards and guidelines for program evaluation, such as those proposed by the American Evaluation Association (AEA). These standards will serve as a framework for the evaluation design, data collection, analysis, and reporting processes. Following these standards will enhance the credibility and reliability of the evaluation results.
Ethical considerations will also be paramount throughout the evaluation process. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, and their confidentiality will be protected. Additionally, steps will be taken to minimize any potential harm or distress to participants during the evaluation.
The stakeholders for this evaluation include the community center staff, program participants, and the local community. It is essential to engage these stakeholders throughout the evaluation process to ensure their input and ownership in the evaluation. Regular communication with stakeholders will be maintained, and their feedback will be sought at various stages of the evaluation. This engagement will not only enhance the evaluation’s validity but also promote buy-in and support for potential program improvements.
In terms of timeline and resources, this evaluation is anticipated to span approximately six months. The data collection phase is estimated to take two months, while data analysis and report writing will account for another two months. The remaining time will be dedicated to stakeholder engagement and dissemination of the findings. Resources required for this evaluation include trained evaluators, survey development software, transcription services for qualitative interviews, and report writing support.
In conclusion, this program evaluation proposal aims to assess the effectiveness of a community-based mental health program in reducing stigma and providing support. It combines quantitative and qualitative methods, adheres to established evaluation standards, and prioritizes ethical considerations and stakeholder engagement. By conducting this evaluation, valuable insights can be gained, and evidence-based recommendations can be made to enhance program outcomes and impact. Feedback and input from faculty and peers on this proposal would be greatly appreciated.
