Evaluation Research: Psychological Perspectives.

Catalog description

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Provides the student with knowledge of and skills in evaluation research. Additionally, students will learn how to apply psychological theories and applied research methods in evaluating psychological interventions and treatment programs. The class covers several key aspects of evaluation: 1) use of psychological theory in evaluations, 2) defining the problem, 3) contextual issues surrounding the evaluation, 4) selecting the appropriate type and design of evaluation, 5) methodological issues and 6) steps involved in conducting an evaluation of process and outcome. Course will attend to: a) theoretical, b) political, social and contextual factors that impact an evaluation, c) cultural considerations when conducting an evaluation, d) practical and logistical considerations and e) effective collaboration with community partners. Course examples and materials will be drawn from the professor's experiences with evaluating community-based psychological interventions and prevention programs and the experiences of guest presenters.