re-socw6311-response-to-2-discussion-questions-wk-11-part-1
Due 5/8/2019
Respond to
a colleagues by offering critiques of their analyses. Identify strengths in
Discussion 1
Response to Crystal
Selected Evaluation Report: Process Evaluation of a Positive Youth Development Program: Project Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs (P.A.T.H.S).
I would present the results of the process evaluation to the social work group by demonstrating the inter-rater reliabilities scores for a proper understanding of the flow of sequence concerning adherence to the program. The tables of the process evaluation for the program will be distributed to the group in shifts having discerned specific interest areas. This will promote a deeper understanding of the scores and their correlation to the program components and the success factors. The cut-off scale indications used in the program evaluation will be projected for all group members to observe and make a conclusive correlation of the scores to the success trajectory (Law & Shek, 2013).
Background information that the group may need
The major background information that would suffice the group is the evolution of the program and some of the successful components that have substantially improved the focus of the target group. The background information on the process evaluation and the affiliated key steps in its implementation should also be considered (Law & Shek, 2013). The group should be introduced to all the requisites of the process evaluation process for the effective transition of the group in understanding the evaluation report.
Strategies that I might use to meet the interests and goals of my colleagues
The first strategy I would apply is a comparative model that gives a borderline interest and goals of my colleagues so that the program deliverables can be adjusted to meet their respective targets. Notably, the feedback evaluation strategy will also form a good template for getting various remarks of the colleagues concerning the program evaluation report (Mertens & Wilson, 2018). This will facilitate the implementation of the required changes to suit the interests of the colleagues effectively. Induction strategy can also be applied to prepare the pre-exposure environment and niche to facilitate conformity of the program evaluation report outcome and the interests of the colleagues (Posavac, 2015).
Possible questions from colleagues and their possible reactions
What is the fate of the outliers realized between the inter-tiers program components?
What are the likely implications of inter-scores which are not captured within the score chart results report?
The possible reactions of the colleagues would be a demand for an advanced explanation of how the outliers will affect the overall program outcome. They would also seek a clear explanation of the various gaps they have projected in their feedbacks realized from the program evaluation.
References
Law, B. M., & Shek, D. T. (2013). Process evaluation of the Project PATHS in Hong Kong. In Development and Evaluation of Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs (PATHS) (pp. 227-246). Springer, Singapore.
Mertens, D. M., & Wilson, A. T. (2018). Program evaluation theory and practice. Guilford Publications.
Posavac, E. J. (2015). Program evaluation: Methods and case studies. Routledge.
Discussion 2
Respond to a colleagues by doing the following:
- Note similarities and differences between how you plan to apply what you have learned and how they plan to apply their knowledge in their field experiences and careers.
- Identify an additional way that your colleagues might find what they have learned useful.
Response to Crystal
Application of new knowledge and skills to research and evaluation
Ideally, the social work profession has been uplifted in its roles towards serving humanity due to the advancement in the research and evaluation (Krysik, 2013). The current dogma of social work has changed to the application of more evidential knowledge and skills in guiding the services offered to the clients. Notably, the National Social Workers Code of Ethics, especially the revised edition has guided the profession to more scaling heights.
The first new knowledge and skills related to research I have acquired in this course is the use of evidence-based practices to inform my knowledge of dealing with various client population. I have embraced the use of peer-reviewed research and other publications on my study topics. Through this process, I have attained knowledge and great analytical skills to apply to a process before settling on the best solution to the client. The quality of services I offer to the target population has thus improved remarkably. I have also learned the key importance of program evaluation in determining the feasibility of a program. I have been able to apply both process and outcome evaluation to gauge the coherence of the program. Notably, the use of logic models has also helped me to know the trajectory of a program before its application. I have applied logical models to verify the cause-effect relationships of different programs thus creating an excellent algorithm for the application of deliverables.
Specific knowledge of learned and strategies
The knowledge of stakeholder analysis is crucial for the application of a program by various agencies. It helps determine both the internal and external factors influencing the program implementation (Thyer, 2015). I have learned the importance of conducting a keen analytical stakeholder analysis to inform the next move. I have also learned the knowledge of gap identification of a program. This is based on the critical analysis and evaluation. I intend to apply it in the program development cycle by applying interventions that can bridge the gaps for more significant client outcomes.
Skills that will be most applicable
Research and analytical skills are vital because they determine the level of evidence-based practice applied to the different client population. Additionally, it helps in identifying the areas of improvement in a project. The use of appropriate research design and data collection method are also facilitated by the research and analytical skills (Sayer, 2014). I also believe in active listening as an essential skill that will help in building strong alliances with clients, other social workers, and the stakeholders thus improving the overall quality of services I offer. Notably, networking skills in the agencies and other relevant organizations will also propel my career (Thyer, 2015). I believe I am good at providing case management services such as making timely phone calls, networking, billing, and maintaining collateral relationships with other care providers.
References
Krysik, J. L. (2013). Research for effective social work practice. Routledge.
Sayer, J. (2014). Social Work Evaluation: Enhancing What We Do, by Dudley, JR.
Thyer, B. A. (2015). Preparing current and future practitioners to integrate research in real practice settings. Research on Social Work Practice, 25(4), 463-472.
