Program evaluation systematically assesses whether a program meets a specific goal for its target population. It is common in nonprofit, government, and academic settings, where programs provide services or address identified needs. section 3.3.3 section 3.4
Evaluators measure participant outcomes before, during, and repeatedly after a program. The resulting evidence supports reporting and continual improvement while keeping the evaluation focused on a specific goal, such as reducing disease prevalence. section 3.3.3
A program evaluation typically:
- Tracks outcomes across a defined population and time period. section 3.3.3
- Retains a narrower goal-focused scope than basic research, applied research, or A/B testing. section 3.3.3
- Uses accumulated evidence to enhance program effectiveness and cost efficiency. section 3.3.3
Adolescent volunteering initiative
A nonprofit evaluates adolescent volunteers at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after their first engagement, examining school performance, well-being, peer connections, and family relationships. The findings can support program improvement, grant opportunities, and peer-reviewed research. section 3.3.3
