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The Evaluation Model

Oregon Outreach uses a five-tier evaluation model (Callor, Betts, Carter, and Marczak, 1996) adapted for use with the CYFAR state-strengthening projects from an original model developed by Jacobs (1988). (See the footnotes for full citations.) The scope of the model is all-inclusive, with evaluation activities integrated into all steps of the overall programming process. The five tiers are:

• Program definition—
  documenting needs and assets and defining the program
  
  
• Accountability—examining if the program serves those for which it was intended and in the manner proposed
  
  
• Understanding and refining—improving the program by providing information to staff, participants, and stakeholders
  
  
• Progress toward objectives—documenting program effectiveness and outcomes in terms of project goals and objectives
  
  
• Program impact—demonstrating long-term improvements in quality of life and program sustainability

This model has served Oregon Outreach particularly well. Since the staff was essentially initiating contact with a new audience it was important that all actions were done in a mindful way, and the model provided a framework that has helped maintain that focus. As staff learned and applied more information about cultural factors, the model was a reminder that progress was being made (and marked) even though the process sometimes seemed slow and the methods used often differed from more traditional approaches.

Callor, S., Betts, S.C., Carter, R., & Marczak, M.S. (1996). CYFAR state strengthening evaluation guide.Washington, DC: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, p. 15.

Jacobs, F.H. (1988). The five-tiered approach to evaluation: Context and implementation. In H. Weiss & F. Jacobs (Eds.), Evaluating family programs
(pp. 37–68). NY: Aldine de Gruyter.