Program Evaluation
Program Evaluation is a way to check if community programs, social services, or nonprofit initiatives are working as intended. It's like a report card for programs that shows whether they're making a real difference and achieving their goals. People who do program evaluation collect information through surveys, interviews, and data analysis to determine what's working, what's not, and how to improve. This helps organizations make better decisions about their services and show funders that their money is being used effectively. It's similar to quality assurance in business, but focused on measuring social impact rather than product quality.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Program Evaluation of youth mentoring initiative, resulting in 30% improved outcomes
Led Program Evaluation and impact assessment for community health services
Designed and implemented Program Evaluation frameworks for multiple grant-funded projects
Performed Program Assessment and Impact Evaluation for social service programs
Typical job title: "Program Evaluators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Program Evaluators
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a time when you had to revise an entire evaluation strategy based on unexpected findings?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should include examples of adapting evaluation plans, managing stakeholder expectations, and implementing new measurement approaches while keeping projects on track.
Q: How do you handle resistance from program staff when evaluation results suggest major changes are needed?
Expected Answer: Look for experience in change management, diplomatic communication skills, and ability to present constructive feedback in a way that motivates improvement rather than defensiveness.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to collect both quantitative and qualitative data for program evaluation?
Expected Answer: Should mention surveys, interviews, focus groups, and data analysis, with examples of when to use each method and how to combine them for comprehensive evaluation.
Q: How do you ensure that evaluation findings are actually used to improve programs?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating clear reports, involving stakeholders throughout the process, and developing practical recommendations that programs can implement.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between process evaluation and outcome evaluation?
Expected Answer: Should explain that process evaluation looks at how a program is implemented, while outcome evaluation measures the results and impact of the program.
Q: How do you ensure data collection is ethical and respects participant privacy?
Expected Answer: Should discuss informed consent, confidentiality measures, and proper data storage and handling procedures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic data collection and analysis
- Survey design and implementation
- Report writing
- Basic statistical analysis
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex evaluation design
- Stakeholder management
- Advanced data analysis
- Grant compliance monitoring
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic evaluation planning
- Team leadership
- Complex program assessment
- Evaluation capacity building
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with data collection methods
- Lack of knowledge about research ethics
- Poor understanding of basic statistical concepts
- No experience writing evaluation reports
- Unable to explain different types of evaluation approaches
Related Terms
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