We consider ‘evaluation capacity strengthening’ to be a core component of any evaluation project we undertake. The degree to which it is incorporated into a specific project is dependent on client need and interest. Wherever possible, we include either an orientation to through to a more detailed exploration of evaluation concepts and practices in initial evaluation planning workshops so that clients can co-design evaluation plans from a position of shared knowledge and understanding.
Examples of incorporating ‘evaluation capacity strengthening’ into a project are included in Evaluation and needs analysis, such as the Evaluation of the Engagement and Wellbeing Policy into Practice Grants, Evaluation of the Telecross and Telechat (SA) Programs, CATSINaM Interim evaluation of the 2013-2018 Strategic Plan, Evaluation of the Under Five’s Ear Health Program, Evaluation of the Ear and Hearing Accredited Training for the Aboriginal Health Worker Workforce Project, and New Arrivals Program (NAP) Targeted Interventions Program Evaluation and Mentoring.
In addition, beyond… undertakes stand-alone ‘evaluation capacity strengthening’ training that may be a one-off event or a substantial component of an evaluation project. For example:
Enhancing our evaluation work, A-TRAC Pre-Symposium Workshop (2014)
Client: Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW (AH&MRC)
Develop and deliver a one-day workshop for staff involved in smoking cessation prevention and health promotion programs in NSW, and provide individual feedback on their current evaluation plans as a pre-cursor to the workshop.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Innovative Schools Program Evaluation and Mentoring (2008 – 2010)
Client: Department of Education and Children’s Services.
Work with the ESL Programs Unit staff to develop program logics and evaluation plans, facilitate evaluation planning and implementation workshops with involved site staff, develop and support staff in utilising shared evaluation tools, and undertake an overall evaluation of the ESL Innovative Schools Program with support from Nicole Keller.
“Overall, focus group participants reported that introducing a Program Planning Evaluation Consultant was a unique and a valuing adding component of the NAP TRIF. They appreciated that the Program Planning and Evaluation Consultant was an active listener, flexible in responding to need, calm, approachable, accessible, solution focussed, and empathetic with leadership skills. NAP Centre leaders reported the Program Planning and Evaluation Consultant:
- was highly professional, taking time to know the topic and people involved, and effectively tailoring her approach to meet individual and group needs
- was an excellent communicator who took a practical approach that was easily transferable to action for schools
- provided clear boundaries for collaboration, in particular staying consistent with the initiative rationale, planning and evaluation tools, and clear timelines
- demonstrated evaluation expertise – she was highly knowledgeable and skilled with the capacity to translate her expertise so it was understood by and workable for her audience.”
Excerpt from the ‘New Arrivals Program (NAP) Targeted Interventions Program Evaluation’ report for the Department of Education and Children’s Services, written by Nicole Keller who independently evaluated Kathleen Stacey’s role as the ‘Program Planning Evaluation Consultant’