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Question: I am interested in designing an evidence-based evaluation study for a senior center. I can't rely on the data in the center's computer so I will need to start with baseline data (utilization demographics, etc.) I had hoped to do an outcome evaluation, but need to take one step at a time.
Answer: We agree, one step at a time sounds like a good way to go. But (if we read your question correctly), before you get too deeply into the baseline data you mention, you might want to take a step back and review the goals of your proposed evaluation study. What would you like to see happen as a result? What purposes will it serve? Our point is that an evaluation study should always follow from your intended goals ? i.e., the goals come first, the evaluation follows, in the service of those goals. Once your goals are clear, then your next steps will are also likely to become clearer. Those steps might well involve utilization and demographic data, as you suggest, but possibly not; or conceivably, other elements as well. One other main recommendation is to be sure that those who will be affected by the evaluation have a chance to shape it- both because they will have insights into the most relevant evaluation criteria (since they are likely to be closer to the scene), and also because they are more likely to accept and follow the results of the evaluation if they have had a hand in designing it. You may have already taken this point into account, and if so, excellent. We hope some of these thoughts may be helpful to you, and that your study turns out to be productive for you and your organization. Thank you for writing to us at the Community Tool Box; and all best wishes for success in your important work.
Question Date: Fri, 03/16/2007