PREV 700
3 credits
The Context of Policy Development and Performance Evaluation
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Program Evaluation.
This course introduces students to the theory and practice of policy development and performance measurement. The course focuses in part on the role and importance of program evaluation and other performance monitoring mechanisms in informing policy and successfully delivering programs and services. The course places program evaluation within the broader context of various policy sectors and accountability and introduces the general conceptual framework for the graduate certificate program.
PREV 710
4 credits
Program Evaluation Principles and Processes
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Program Evaluation
Pre- or corequisite(s): PREV 700
This course introduces students to the analytical and systematic processes used in program evaluation. It introduces the importance of logic models and provides an overview of the various types of evaluation and strategies to select the appropriate approach. Students are offered an opportunity to explore the role of best practices and evidence-based approaches as framing the evaluative enterprise. This course also emphasizes the importance of values and ethical behavior and professional standards in conducting evaluations. It examines the various approaches and research methods used in program evaluation and performance measurement, and critically examines the strengths and limitations of these methods. The notions of program ‘evaluability’, performance indicators, and stakeholder engagement are introduced.
PREV 720
4 credits
Evaluation Design and Issues in Program Evaluation I
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Program Evaluation and PREV 700.
Pre- or corequisite(s): PREV 710
As the first of two courses examining evaluation methods, this course introduces students to the design process in program evaluation including the selection of an appropriate research methodology. The course also examines how issues arise from various stakeholder agenda including scope, processes, timelines and data, as well as other issues relating to the implementation and management of evaluation studies. Two key evaluation approaches are focused on: needs assessment and process/implantation evaluation. The course provides students with the skills and knowledge to design these types of evaluation studies and other performance assessment tools. Students will be required to develop several evaluation designs. Students will also examine the competencies required for professional evaluators.
PREV 730
4 credits
Evaluation Design and Issues in Program Evaluation II
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Graduate certificate in Program Evaluation, PREV 700, and PREV 710
Pre- or corequisite(s): PREV 720
As the second of two courses examining methods (following PREV 720), this course introduces students to the theoretical foundations and methodologies of impact evaluation and cost-benefit analysis and examines the strengths and limitations of these approaches. Students will learn about how to identify and measure the social and economic impacts or outcomes of programs, their intended and unintended results, and present and future strategic opportunities. The course teaches students the skills and methods for designing and conducting impact and cost-benefit studies and interpreting their findings.
