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| Creating an Evaluation Tool |
| Evaluation Methods & Analysis |
| Overview of Evaluating Programs |
| Evaluation Tools and Instrument Design |
Evaluation means different things to different people and takes place in different contexts. Although many definitions have been developed, the one most appropriate for use within the AgCenter is the systematic collection and analysis of information to determine the merit or worth, or value, of a program or curriculum.
The word systematic means the evaluation must be planned as an integral part of the design or planning process. It is not just something that happens at the end. Evaluation should be a part of every program, and every program should be evaluated during each step.
While evaluation is a critical component of extension program development, not all extension programs need to be formally evaluated. Since developing a good evaluation instrument and analyzing data can be time-consuming, be selective in which programs you want to evaluate formally. Select programs where you spend a lot of contact hours with clientele. These programs have the most significant potential for impact.
For more information on evaluation, visit the following resources:
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture
