At the end of last year, the Northwest Center for Public Health Practice (NWCPHP) launched its first cohort of the Fundamentals of Program Evaluation course.
Adapted as a stand-alone training from the Public Health Management Certificate program, the course introduces leaders and managers to the basics of program evaluation. Participants learn practical steps and tools they can use throughout program planning, implementation and data gathering, as well as how to communicate results.
The eight-week series helps participants improve evaluation components and test overall program effectiveness to help secure funding. Participants also receive a workbook which allows them to practice and explore course concepts in greater depth.
“A lot of public health folks don’t have an evaluation background but are asked to do this work to meet funding requirements,” said Christine Ector, NWCPHP Continuing Education Coordinator who oversees the course. “This short course and the workbook provide templates and examples that help participants set up and structure their evaluation work.”
One of the course’s most unique features is the space it creates for participants to workshop ongoing or potential projects, while connecting with colleagues across their organization.
“You could find a self-paced version of this type of course anywhere,” said Ector. “But with our live learning breakout sessions, we provide not only networking opportunities but also the chance to practice evaluation skills together.”
“It’s designed so you can take an hour and a half each week to meet with colleagues, brainstorm, collaborate, and review your work. It’s a great space for building a shared foundation of skills and understanding across projects and job roles.”
The recent members of the Public Health – Seattle & King County cohort also brought active or potential evaluation projects to the course. Working with faculty and their peers, they were able to apply course concepts and receive feedback in real time.
“It’s challenging to complete a training and then wait months or years to apply what you’ve learned,” said one participant. “I really enjoyed that while we were in the training, we were also immediately using what we were learning and applying it to an ongoing project. It was a great idea!”
“Overall, I learned so much and have already started applying the course to evaluate a pilot project that recently concluded,” said another participant. “The course content was thoughtfully tailored to public health practice, and I appreciated the time and effort the instructor put into it.”
Organizations interested in offering the Fundamentals of Evaluation course for their teams can contact Christine Ector to learn more. Cohorts require a minimum of 30 participants and courses typically begin about three months after a request is submitted.
