Evaluation Pathways & 5 Steps to an Evaluation website
Client:
Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM)
University of Washington
Geography:
United States
ServiceS:
Applied research and evaluation
Data analysis, viz, reporting
Capacity building and training
SectorS:
Cross-sectoral
Background
Informed was engaged to create guidance for NNLM programs to develop evaluation plans focused on four thematic areas: K-12 Health, LGBTQIA+, Race & Ethnicity, and Rural Health. After consulting with thematic-area specialists and using the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Framework for Program Evaluation, Informed presented key elements of an evaluation design, including logic models and evaluation plans, in a web-friendly format. These instructions were drafted at an overarching level, supported by specific recommendations for each thematic area.
objectives
Enable NNLM grant recipients to pursue a particular interest and to develop evaluation plans and evaluation skills specifically tailored to working with underserved communities locally and regionally.
Influence NNLM’s use of evaluation and provide support strategies aimed at achieving the objectives of increasing the use of evaluation in the NNLM regions, providing quality evaluation training opportunities, and guidance on evaluation practices and trends.
Activities
Document review & planning: Informed International reviewed existing NNLM documentation related to evaluation and best practices relevant to each pathway. A project plan and timeline was developed for compiling resources and displaying online.
Mapping of pathways: Resources and information common across the 4 pathways were identified to ensure cohesion between pathways, while extensive research was done to include the most relevant pathway-specific recommendations for evaluation.
Pathways design: Pathways were designed incorporating adult learning principles and best practices for adult learning approaches. The goal of each design was to encourage those less familiar with evaluation to actively engage with the approaches, making often-complicated information simple and approachable.
Pathways displayed online: Using a Drupal CMS, Informed added the Pathways information to the NNLM website in a way that facilitated learning and an engaging user experience.
Pathways training webinars for NNLM staff: A training webinar was held for NNLM staff on each Pathway and best practices for its use by grant recipients.
