Formative evaluation

Definition

Formative evaluation is a type of assessment used to monitor and improve a program or intervention during its development or implementation. It focuses on collecting feedback and data to make real-time adjustments, ensuring that the program meets its objectives and serves the intended population effectively. This evaluation approach is particularly crucial in policy practice and social planning, as it helps stakeholders identify areas for enhancement and optimize resources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Formative evaluation occurs throughout the lifecycle of a program, allowing for adjustments based on stakeholder feedback.
2. It emphasizes qualitative data collection methods such as interviews and focus groups to understand participants' experiences.
3. This type of evaluation supports continuous learning, enabling program staff to refine their strategies for better outcomes.
4. In policy practice, formative evaluation can help identify potential barriers and facilitators in implementing new policies.
5. The insights gained from formative evaluation contribute to more effective decision-making in social planning by ensuring that interventions are responsive to community needs.

Review Questions

• How does formative evaluation differ from summative evaluation in the context of program development?
  • Formative evaluation focuses on improving a program while it is being implemented by gathering feedback and making necessary adjustments. In contrast, summative evaluation takes place after a program's completion to assess its overall effectiveness and impact. This difference highlights the proactive nature of formative evaluation, as it allows stakeholders to identify challenges early on and enhance the program's success before final outcomes are measured.
• Discuss the role of stakeholder feedback in shaping the outcomes of formative evaluation within social planning.
  • Stakeholder feedback is crucial in formative evaluation because it provides insights into the experiences and perceptions of those directly affected by the program. By engaging stakeholders—such as community members, service providers, and policymakers—evaluators can gather valuable information that informs necessary changes. This collaborative approach ensures that interventions are relevant, culturally sensitive, and more likely to achieve desired outcomes in social planning.
• Evaluate how formative evaluation can enhance decision-making processes in policy practice and influence long-term outcomes.
  • Formative evaluation enhances decision-making processes in policy practice by providing ongoing data that reflects the effectiveness of interventions in real-time. This continuous feedback loop allows policymakers to make informed adjustments that respond to community needs and emerging challenges. As a result, policies can be more adaptable and evidence-based, leading to improved long-term outcomes. By integrating formative evaluations into the policy development process, stakeholders can ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and strategies are aligned with the intended goals.

Related terms

summative evaluation: Summative evaluation assesses the effectiveness of a program after its completion, determining whether it met its goals and had a significant impact.

needs assessment: A needs assessment identifies the specific requirements and gaps within a community or population, serving as a foundation for planning interventions.

program logic model: A program logic model is a visual representation that outlines the resources, activities, outputs, and expected outcomes of a program, guiding both planning and evaluation.