Program evaluation

Most practitioners seek to promote program goals such as improved self-confidence, inter- and intra-personal skills, environmental sensitivity and physical fitness, to name just a few. But how can we objectively assess the extent to which such goals are achieved? What is the risk if desired outcomes are not being achieved? Could the same outcomes be achieved more effectively through other methods? Are the outcomes achieved cost effective? What evaluation methods could be used to examine the extent to which a program is achieving its mission and program objectives? Is it enough to rely on anecdotal stories and everyday perceptions? Or is that too risky? From a risk management perspective, knowing what you achieve, how you achieve and ways you can improve your processes and outcomes will be of benefit in risk communication, program design, staff training, organisational development and sustainability. This chapter introduces program evaluation methods and practices with advice tailored to evaluating outdoor and experiential learning programs.