Identify where the program planning and evaluation process can provide opportunities for program improvement.


Explain the how program evaluation can improve a program. Consider both the manager and funder perspectives as you look for program improvement opportunities.

can someone explain these questions to me so i can understand what my instructor trying to ask?

They are asking you how evaluation of a program already in existence can lead toward that program's improvement.

Here's an example:

In 2000, I worked at a high school that had been given a state grant to greatly expand the "technology" in the school. In writing the grant application, we had written that there was not enough computer access for students. (Plenty of computer access for office people, but very little for teachers and almost none for students.)

We ended up putting a teacher station and at least two student stations in each classroom, depending on what was being taught in that classroom. (Drafting/CAD classrooms received more computers than English classrooms, for example.) We also ordered two mobile labs, each of which consisted of 30 laptops, a printer, and a huge cart on which these could all be stored and then moved to different classrooms on a sign-up basis. There were many other elements in our plan, too.

After a year, we held a formal evaluation of the system so far, starting with a written survey from all the teachers on campus and moving on to individual interviews and faculty meetings. What we discovered was that just about everything was being used well except for the mobile labs. It turned out that only about 4 or 5 teachers (out of a faculty of about 130) figured out how to use them effectively in their classrooms, and the rest didn't want the hassle.

What do you think the conclusion was about just that part of the program?

Evaluation includes whatever ways you can find to think about what you've done, what is going wrong, what could be better, what needs to be fixed now, what can wait, etc.

Certainly! I can help explain these questions for you.

First, let's understand the concept of program planning and evaluation. Program planning refers to the process of designing a program, setting goals and objectives, and determining the strategies and activities needed to achieve those goals. Program evaluation, on the other hand, involves assessing the effectiveness and impact of the program once it has been implemented.

Now, let's break down the questions:

1. "Identify where the program planning and evaluation process can provide opportunities for program improvement."
In this question, your instructor is asking you to identify specific stages or elements within the program planning and evaluation process that can be used as opportunities to improve the program. This means you need to think about the different steps involved in planning and evaluating a program and consider how they can be utilized for program improvement.

For example, during the planning phase, you could identify opportunities for improvement by conducting thorough needs assessments, performing research on best practices, or engaging in stakeholder consultations. In the evaluation phase, you could look for areas to improve by analyzing data on program outcomes or conducting surveys and interviews with participants and stakeholders.

2. "Explain how program evaluation can improve a program. Consider both the manager and funder perspectives as you look for program improvement opportunities."
In this question, your instructor is asking you to consider both the perspective of the program manager (the person responsible for overseeing the program) and the funder or sponsor (the person or organization providing funding for the program).

From the manager's perspective, program evaluation can provide valuable feedback and insights into the effectiveness of the program's strategies and activities. This feedback can help identify areas of success or areas for improvement, leading to more informed decision-making and adjustments to the program. Evaluation data can also be used to demonstrate the program's impact and effectiveness to stakeholders, which can be beneficial for securing continued support and resources.

From the funder's perspective, program evaluation provides evidence on whether the program is achieving its intended outcomes and whether it is a worthwhile investment. Evaluation data can help funders make informed decisions about whether to continue funding, modify the program, or allocate resources differently. This information is crucial for ensuring accountability and making sure that funds are being used effectively.

In summary, program planning and evaluation provide opportunities for program improvement by allowing for thorough assessments, data analysis, and feedback. They give program managers and funders valuable information to make informed decisions, adjust strategies, and ensure the program's success.