Provides a broad training in policy evaluation concepts and
methods and provides the tools needed to apply quantitative
techniques to the assessment of policy decisions.
Athena Title
Evaluating Public Programs
Prerequisite
POLS 1101 or POLS 1101E or POLS 1101H or POLS 1101S
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will identify and be able to describe basic concepts and methods of evaluation research.
Students will recognize and be able to explain both the importance of and inherent difficulties associated with evaluations government and nonprofit programs.
Students will identify and explain the strengths and weaknesses associated with the different research designs and data collection strategies used to evaluate public programs and management interventions.
Students will develop and use logic models.
Students will design, explain, and present an outcome/impact evaluation proposal for a program or management intervention.
Topical Outline
Introduction to Program Evaluation
Government Program Goals and Performance Expectations
Program Performance Measures & their Implications
Program Need Assessments & Theories of Change
Impact Evaluation & Experimental Designs/Data
Surveys Sampling & Administration
Measurement
Program Evaluation Ethics
Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes
Critical Thinking
The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.
