On-Site Training Module
This module was revised in 2016 to incorporate social-emotional learning, character building and Quality Standards for Expanded Learning in California as part of CalSAC's work with the Expanded Learning 360/365 project.
During this training, participants will learn what evaluation is and why it is important for programs. They will also learn the principles of evaluation in order to begin to develop evaluation criteria for their own program and gain tools to meet the Continuous Quality Improvement standard for Expanded Learning Programs in California.
In this training participants will:
- Understand the evaluation process and consider its importance
- Begin developing evaluation criteria for their own program.
Content Overview:
Cracking Open the Topic of Evaluation
Using a sample site attendance sheet, participants will analyze the collected information and determine recommendations to improve program.
Evaluation Principles
Identification of the importance of program evaluation and challenges on OST staff in implementing evaluation. The participants will also learn the evaluation principles in relationship to their programs.
When/Who/How
Introduction of evaluation components. Participants will have an understanding of the evaluation process and consider its importance in each level.
“So What” With Evaluation
The importance of data sharing is key to the success of an evaluation.
Your Turn
Small groups select a topic and go through the steps to organize an evaluation, with the focus on thinking through the parts of evaluation.
Training Length: 2 hours
eLearning Module
Evaluations are important for programs for a number of reasons including:
Measuring “what works” and “what does not work.”
Highlighting the effectiveness of a program to the community and to funders.
Improving staff’s frontline practice with families and children.
Increasing a program’s capacity to conduct a critical self-assessment and plan for the future.
Building knowledge for the out-of-school time field.
By the end of this module, participants will:
- Understand the evaluation process and consider its importance.
- Begin developing evaluation criteria for their own program.