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Program Evaluation: A Synthesis of Lessons Learned by Child Neglect Demonstration Projects
Grantee Lessons Learned

Author(s):  United States. Children's Bureau.

Year Published:  2005

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You are in section: Table of Contents 1 - Challenges and Successful… 2 - Lessons Learned for… 3 - Conclusion Appendix A Appendix B Appendix B Cont. Appendix C Appendix D

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3. Conclusion

Several of the grantees in this cluster conducted very thorough evaluations, and they were all able to report positive outcomes for children and families. These outcomes included reductions in child behavior problems, parenting issues, foster care placements, and CPS reports; improvements in child and family health and well-being; and increased parenting skills. (See companion synthesis, Child Neglect Demonstration Projects: A Synthesis of Lessons Learned, for further information on program outcomes.)

Along the way, however, all of the grantees experienced some challenges in implementing their program evaluation plans. The difficulties they faced in selecting instruments, staffing their evaluations, establishing comparison groups, conducting sound evaluations of individualized and flexible services, and collecting data are similar to those any program manager will likely face when conducting an evaluation in the field. Starting with a detailed evaluation plan, committing substantial funds to program evaluation, developing strategies to minimize the impact of staff turnover on evaluation implementation, forming strong evaluation teams, working together as a cluster, and receiving evaluation technical assistance all contributed to the success of these grantees. These successful strategies, and the lessons learned throughout the grant cycle, will be helpful to other programs wishing to establish effective program evaluation designs and methods.

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You are in section: Table of Contents 1 - Challenges and Successful… 2 - Lessons Learned for… 3 - Conclusion Appendix A Appendix B Appendix B Cont. Appendix C Appendix D

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Updated on July 3, 2008