404 – Program Evaluation – Obtaining the Information You Really Want to Know: Part I

Every year, park and recreation agencies provide hundreds of thousands of programs, events, and services. Some programs address specific goals/outcomes, whereas other events or services focus on enjoyable experiences. How do we know that our intended outcome is achieved? Many agencies use generic customer satisfaction surveys except when a granting organization requires specific data from participants. Agencies should employ program evaluation to gather information regularly to make informed decisions about program design and goals. Program evaluation does not need to be overly complicated or time-consuming. Part one will focus on the processes of understanding different evaluation forms and designing evaluation tools.
Learning Outcomes:
- Obtain a better understanding of different methods of program evaluation.
- Differentiate program evaluation design for programs, events, and services.