Module 3 Assignment 1

Program Evaluation

One specific use of the mixed-methods design can be found in the program evaluation process. While researchers are typically most interested in enhancing the profession’s knowledge base, such as comparing the efficacy of two particular interventions or treatments, program evaluators are most interested in determining the effectiveness of a particular program for a particular group of people (Heppner, Kivlighan, & Wampold, 1999). Therefore, program evaluators ideally want to be involved at the very beginning when the program is being designed to learn about how the interventions/treatments are chosen. After the program begins, the program evaluators carefully monitor the data collection procedures to ensure that the processes are executed correctly.

Another difference between research and program evaluation is that, although program evaluation uses many of the data collection methods used in empirical research (whether qualitatively or quantitatively), the scope of a program evaluation is often much broader than that of an empirical research. In addition, whereas empirical research often occurs in controlled settings, program evaluation typically occurs in natural settings, without a control group, and outside of the program evaluator’s control. Further, program evaluators are interested not only in the outcome of the program but also in the process or the implementation of the program. Since the program evaluation process is so comprehensive and must meet the needs of the different stakeholders involved, a mixed-methods design is most often used.

Reference:

Heppner, P. P., Kivlighan, D. M., Jr., & Wampold, B. E. (1999). Research
            design in counseling (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Brooks/Cole.