ABSTRACT
Evaluation continued to evolve through the 1930s when social systems were rapidly changing, then in the 1960s, the Great Society Legislation was passed and this legislation required program evaluation. This chapter highlights the purpose, questions, and timing for different program evaluation approaches. Documenting formative evaluation in rural communities focuses on accountability, monitoring resource use, and documenting progress and challenges that may occur. Outcome evaluations are used to document if the desired outcomes were achieved and what made a program effective or ineffective. Outcome evaluations also explore the likelihood that a program can be sustained or replicated. Use of assessment is to monitor how the program is being implemented and make changes to improve process and outcomes. Economic evaluations are conducted to document the costs of a program, to reduce program costs, and to monitor program effectiveness. The results from economic evaluations are used to inform and influence policy, and support informed decision-making.
