Program evaluators collect data to analyze and evaluate projects, policies, and programs offered by organizations. They determine if programs are effective and a good use of resources. Demand for effective programs has increased, and evaluators work in various fields. They must have exceptional analytical and communication skills and typically have an undergraduate degree and internship experience.
A program evaluator is a person who collects data and other information to analyze, evaluate, and generally answer questions about specific projects, policies, and programs offered by organizations, government agencies, and businesses. Program evaluators work in both the public and private sectors. Through interviews, observations, and focus groups, they make informed judgments about the merits of various programs. In general, a program evaluator determines whether established programs are effective and a good use of the company’s financial and personnel investments.
In the past, evaluation was seen as an unnecessary expense, but accountability for spending has driven demand for effective programs. Funding agencies are demanding reports on how their money is being spent and the actual performance of programs. As a result, a program evaluator may be asked to answer general questions such as “How did the program perform?” In addition, they may be asked to evaluate more in-depth questions such as: “We invested half a million dollars to develop a program last year. How did the show spend our money? ”
Employment for program evaluators spans many fields. They often work in school systems, public health organizations, municipal and other government agencies, and private sector companies. Using a multitude of research methods and statistical processes, they assess the impact of programs.
Program evaluation is a valuable tool for checking and evaluating the impact of programs or products on customers and clients. Working closely with management, the program evaluator can identify unmet customer needs, as well as areas requiring improvement and the best way to improve the product. When designing an assessment, the assessor should consider the following: what is the purpose of the assessment, who is receiving the data obtained, what information is needed and who, ie clients, should be assessed? In addition, evaluators can provide an objective view, supported by relevant data, of the program.
Program evaluators come from diverse backgrounds and must have exceptional analytical and communication skills to present concise and focused results. Being friendly and professional is also an asset. To become a program evaluator, you usually need an undergraduate degree, internship experience, and practical work on research projects. Completing a master’s degree, usually in the social sciences, and even earning a doctorate is not uncommon. There are courses available to become a program evaluator, which can be explored by contacting local colleges and universities.
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