Project Evaluation and Metrics Flashcards
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Read the first 6 Project Evaluation and Metrics flashcards as text
A nonprofit is implementing a year-long tutoring program for at-risk youth. The funder requires regular updates to see if the program's strategies are working and to allow for mid-course corrections. Which type of evaluation would be most appropriate to meet this requirement?
Answer: Formative evaluation
Formative evaluation is conducted during a project's lifecycle to provide ongoing feedback. It focuses on monitoring progress and determining if adjustments are needed, which aligns perfectly with the funder's requirement for regular updates and mid-course corrections.
In a logic model, which component describes the direct, tangible products and services that result from a project's activities?
Answer: Outputs
Outputs are the direct and measurable results of the project's activities. For example, if an activity is 'conduct 10 workshops,' the output would be '10 workshops were conducted' or '200 participants attended workshops.' Outcomes, on the other hand, are the changes that result from those outputs.
A grant proposal for a community garden project states its goal is to 'improve neighborhood health.' To make the evaluation plan stronger, which of the following is the BEST example of a measurable outcome?
Answer: A 15% increase in residents' self-reported consumption of fresh vegetables after one year.
A measurable outcome must be specific and quantifiable. A '15% increase' provides a clear, measurable target that can be assessed through surveys or other data collection methods. The other options are either too vague ('increased community engagement'), an output ('successful cultivation'), or an activity ('distribution of flyers').
Which of the following best distinguishes between process evaluation and outcome evaluation?
Answer: Process evaluation focuses on how a program is implemented, while outcome evaluation measures the changes that result from the program.
Process evaluation examines the implementation of a project: its activities, resources, and efficiency ('how' it was done). Outcome evaluation focuses on the results and effects of the project ('what' happened as a result).
An organization receives a three-year grant to reduce homelessness. At the end of the grant period, the funder wants a final report demonstrating the project's overall effectiveness and whether it achieved its long-term goals. This type of evaluation is called:
Answer: A summative evaluation
Summative evaluation occurs at the end of a project to determine its overall success and effectiveness in achieving its intended goals. It 'sums up' the project's achievements, which is what the funder requires in this scenario.
A grant writer is developing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for a job training program. Which of the following is the LEAST effective KPI for measuring the program's success?
Answer: The number of résumés written by participants.
While the number of résumés written is an output of an activity, it is the weakest indicator of the program's ultimate success. The other options—completion rate, job placement rate, and wage increase—are much stronger outcome-based metrics that directly reflect the program's impact on participants' lives and careers.