Response to Maranda

Maranda Rivera RE: Discussion - Week 10

C O L L A P S E Evaluation Method When considering the impact of any program, consideration of the evaluation method should be valued. Though evaluation may appear time consuming or intimidating, evaluation is an important part of ensuring that the intervention is appropriate and the resources are justified (McNamara, 2012). In the case of the program for foster families and training, there are a few factors to consider. Evaluation can be completed in a variety of ways, so selecting the best method is important. Qualitative or quantitative research methods may be appropriate for this case study as the program focuses on foster parents and reducing placement disruptions (Plummer, Makris, & Brocksen, 2014). Using mixed methods and complementary data, the evaluation can demonstrate a great amount of information and exemplify the evaluation (Dudley, 2020). Qualitative measures that may support the data involved case studies (Dudley, 2020). Being that the program involved foster parents and their foster children, identifying success stories or challenges throughout the study may support future improvement by collecting this data. From quantitative measures, the recommendation would be to complete a descriptive analysis in order to further gather data and review. Gathering this data can include identifying specific questions such as “At what rate do families experience disruptions?” or “what training do individuals find most beneficial?”. Identifying questions and how to address answers will support quality findings.

Criteria Measures In order to measure the data and gather this information, Joan must identify a plan for evaluation. Case studies can be gathered through review of parents and families that participate in the program. Joan or another individual delegated may be able to write these reports. For the descriptive analysis, this will be applied to the model that Joan is creating using the likert scale. Typically, the likert scale or percentages are most beneficial when using a descriptive analysis (Dudley, 2020). Joan or other staff members are able to collect this data related to the measures they are choosing to address. For instance, if they are most interested in satisfaction, number of disruptions, or another variable, this can be measured and analysed with this method. Overall, the method for evaluating the data will impact the benefit of the results. With clear information from the program, the leaders and Joan will be able to further implement change and improve the program in the future.

References Dudley, J. R. (2020). Social work evaluation: Enhancing what we do (3rd ed.) Oxford University Press.

McNamara, C. (2006b). Reasons for priority on implementing outcomes-based evaluation.In Basic guide to outcomes-based evaluation for nonprofit organizations with very limited resources. Retrieved from http://managementhelp.org/evaluation/outcomes- evaluation-guide.htm#anchor30249

Plummer, S.-B., Makris, S., & Brocksen S. (Eds.). (2014b). Social work case studies: Concentration year. Baltimore, MD: Laureate International Universities Publishing. [Vital Source e-reader].