PADM 5340 - Introduction to Evaluation

Fall. 3 credits.

Prior completion of introductory statistics and basic qualitative methods is recommended, but not required.

M. Johnson.

This graduate-level course uses case study simulation, role-play, data collection and analysis exercises to convey evaluation concepts and approaches, and to build skills for planning and conducting program evaluations. Students will learn basic evaluation concepts and a selection of mainstream approaches, as well as the norms and values of professional evaluation practice. They will negotiate, collaborate and resolve conflicts in a complex, team-based evaluation project while strategically selecting from among options for: a) overall evaluation approach, b) measurement, c) sampling, d) research design (including pre/post control group design and benefit-cost analysis), e) data collection (including surveys and interviews) and f) data analysis (including qualitative content analysis and quantitative pre/post analysis). Finally, students will conduct qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis exercises relevant for evaluation. Suggested prior coursework: introductory statistics and introductory research methods.