Which evaluation focuses on improving program delivery as it unfolds during implementation?

Which evaluation focuses on improving program delivery as it unfolds during implementation?

• A. Needs assessment
• B. Formative evaluation
• C. Outcome evaluation
• D. Action research

Answer: (B)

Formative evaluation centers on improving program delivery as it unfolds during implementation. It involves gathering ongoing feedback about how activities are carried out, how staff are trained, whether procedures are being followed, and how participants respond. This information is used to make real-time adjustments, fix problems, and refine methods so the program runs more smoothly and increases its chances of success. Needs assessment looks at needs before starting, outcome evaluation checks results after implementation, and action research is a collaborative, iterative approach to solving problems that can occur during implementation but isn’t defined by the same real-time improvement focus as formative evaluation.

Formative evaluation centers on improving program delivery as it unfolds during implementation. It involves gathering ongoing feedback about how activities are carried out, how staff are trained, whether procedures are being followed, and how participants respond. This information is used to make real-time adjustments, fix problems, and refine methods so the program runs more smoothly and increases its chances of success. Needs assessment looks at needs before starting, outcome evaluation checks results after implementation, and action research is a collaborative, iterative approach to solving problems that can occur during implementation but isn’t defined by the same real-time improvement focus as formative evaluation.