Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab Executive Training: Evaluating Social Programs 2011, Spring 2011

Abstract:: This five-day program on evaluating social programs will provide a thorough understanding of randomized evaluations and pragmatic step-by-step training for conducting one's own evaluation. While the course focuses on randomized evaluations, many of the topics, such as measuring outcomes and dealing with threats to the validity of an evaluation, are relevant for other methodologies. About the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab J-PAL's goal is to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is based on scientific evidence. Every day, evidence generated by J-PAL researchers is influencing policy and improving lives, sometimes very directly - for example through the scale-up of effective programs- but also in less direct but equally important ways. To date, our evidence has helped improve the lives of at least 30 million people around the world through the scale-up of highly effective policies and programs. By 2013, J-PAL aims to have positively impacted 100 million lives.

Econometrics, Spring 2007

Abstract:: Introduction to econometric models and techniques, emphasizing regression. Advanced topics include instrumental variables, panel data methods, measurement error, and limited dependent variable models. Includes problem sets. May not count toward HASS requirement.

No Strings Attached

Abstract:: This article describes an evaluation of an Ed.D. Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership conducted at a university in North Carolina. The purpose was to determine graduates’ perceptions of the impact of the degree attainment on their professional career. Results will also assist with efforts for improving the quality of the program of study. Data analyzed included professional accomplishments, scholarly activities, leadership activities that contribute to the education profession and society. Findings indicated that follow up and information provided by graduates of a program provided a unique source of data that can describe the significance and effectiveness of the program to students and to professional communities. Approximately 80% of graduates indicated that the dissertation process was the most effective aspect of their program of study. Additionally, all graduates reported that the degree program resulted in increased income and job promotions. Only 16% of graduates indicated participation in scholarly work.

No Strings Attached

Abstract:: Protecting You/Protecting Me (PY/PM) is a classroom-based alcohol-use prevention program developed by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for students in grades 1–5. The goal of the intervention is to prevent injury and death of children and youth due to underage consumption of alcoholic beverages and vehicle crashes when riding with impaired drivers. Development of PY/PM began in the summer of 1998. In spring 2002, PY/PM was named a Model Program by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) and the National Registry of Effective Programs, now known as the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices (NREPP). Since the inception of the project, evaluation data have been used to determine program goals, develop and revise the curriculum, assess effective methods of delivery, and improve effectiveness. The purpose of this document is to provide an example of how evaluation can be used in each of the five stages of program development—initiation, planning, field-testing, implementation, and stabilization—to build a solid, evidence-based program that accomplishes its goals. This case study is not intended to be a manual on how to achieve effective program status. It is simply an example of how a good program can be developed in the “real world” by a grassroots organization with limited funds.

Abstract:: Fundamentals of Program Evaluation familiarizes students in different types of program evaluation, including needs assessment, formative research, process evaluation, monitoring of outputs and outcomes, impact assessment, and cost analysis. Students gain practical experience through a series of exercises involving the design of a conceptual framework, development of indicators, analysis of computerized service statistics, and development of an evaluation plan to measure impact. This course covers experimental, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental study designs, including the strengths and limitations of each.