Overview of Data Collection for Evaluation

In the previous section of Power of Proof, we stressed the importance of writing clear and measurable objectives to guide what your evaluation will accomplish, by whom, when, and how. If written correctly, your objective will tell you the kinds of information needed to evaluate your program. Your objective might be to find out whether or not a pamphlet is acceptable to people, or how many people attended a Clean Air Fair,

or the number of businesses that have gone smoke free since 2001. In other words, you know the questions that interest you, and what you are looking for, now you need to gather sound information that will help you answer your questions.

During data collection, the answers to your questions begin to unfold. You will be able to hear from real users, learning what works well and what can be improved. This can be a very satisfying experience after working for so long to put the pieces of the program together. Now, you finally have some feedback. Does this feedback show that the program is working as you intended it to? What parts are working just fine? What areas need adjustment? Is all your hard work making as much of a difference as you hoped it would?

There is much involved in finding the answers to these questions. In this program, we will address tasks you need to complete to ensure you collect the right information to help you evaluate your program. Now, continue to Before You Begin for some direction on how to best prepare for data collection.