CPE Evaluation Methods & Reporting 5

Question 1

Which design provides the strongest evidence of causal attribution in program evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Randomized controlled trial

Answer

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) use random assignment to create equivalent groups, providing the strongest control for selection bias and confounding variables.

Question 2

Regression discontinuity design (RDD) is appropriate when:

Accepted Answer

Program participants are assigned based on a continuous cutoff score

Answer

RDD exploits a cutoff score (e.g., income threshold, test score) used for program assignment to estimate causal effects at the threshold.

Question 3

Social Return on Investment (SROI) differs from traditional cost-benefit analysis primarily because SROI:

Accepted Answer

Monetizes social, environmental, and economic value using stakeholder-defined proxies

Answer

SROI assigns monetary values to social and environmental outcomes using stakeholder-defined proxies, broadening the scope beyond traditional economic metrics.

Question 4

An evaluator conducting focus groups notices one dominant participant repeatedly silencing others. The BEST immediate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Use structured turn-taking techniques to ensure all voices are heard

Answer

Using facilitation techniques like structured turn-taking or direct invitation addresses dominance dynamics while preserving the group discussion.

Question 5

The AEA Program Evaluation Standards include which of the following categories?

Accepted Answer

Utility, feasibility, propriety, accuracy, and evaluation accountability

Answer

The Joint Committee's Program Evaluation Standards include five categories: utility, feasibility, propriety, accuracy, and evaluation accountability.

(CPE) Certified Program Evaluator Practice Test

(CPE) Certified Program Evaluator Practice Test

CPE Evaluation Methods & Reporting 5