NCJ Number
171854
Date Published
1996
Length
76 pages
Annotation
This report is designed to sensitize local prosecutors to the benefits of program evaluation and to furnish guidelines for an evaluation effort that is cost-effective.
Abstract
"Evaluation" is defined as the "systematic assessment of the extent to which programs are executed as planned and the degree to which they reach their stated objectives." Values in conducting an evaluation are determination of whether the program works, assistance in resource-allocation decisions, guidance in adjusting programs to improve effectiveness, and use as a marketing tool for program expansion or replications. As an elected public official, the local prosecutor should be aware of the importance that program evaluations can have for political decisions based on evaluation results. In addition to discussing what program evaluation should do and the functions and benefits of program evaluation, this report discusses the relationship between the evaluator and the program administrator. This is followed by an overview of types of evaluations (process and impact evaluations). Part Two of the report describes how to conduct an evaluation. The steps explained are writing the problem statement, writing goals and objectives, monitoring the program, measuring program performance, and reporting results. 12 tables, 7 worksheets, and a 17-item bibliography