Defining Clear Goals and ObjectivesDefining Clear Goals and Objectives Barbara A. Howell, M.A. PAD 5850

Goal A broad-based statement of the ultimate result of the change being undertaken

Objective A measurable, time-specific result that the organization expects to accomplish as part of the funded project.

Developing Goals and Objectives What are the key areas you are seeking to change? What segment of the population will be involved in the change? What is the direction of change (increase or improvement, decrease or reduction)? What is the degree or amount of change you’ll be looking for? What is the deadline to reach the degree of change?

Objectives Process –Quantifies the method Outcome –States a quantifiable result of the project

Objectives Stated in quantifiable terms Stated in terms of outcomes or results. Should identify the population being served Should be realistic and capable of being accomplished within the time frame indicated.

Goals and Objectives - Recap State goals as results State objectives as specific results that relate to the program goal. Objectives should be obtainable and quantifiable Refer to the client population Provide specific time frames for change

Evaluation Process that determines the effectiveness and efficiency of a project. Determined prior to the program’s implementation.

Evaluation - Purpose Find out whether the program did what was expected Determine if the methods specified were used and the objectives met Determine if an impact was made on the need identified Obtain feedback from their target group and others Maintain some control over the project Make adjustments during the program to help its success

Preparing the Evaluation Section What is the purpose of your evaluation? How will the findings be used? What will you know after the evaluation that you do not know now? What will you do after the evaluation that you cannot do now for lack of information? How will you know if you have succeeded with your program?

Evaluation Methods Quantitative Methods –Translates experience into units that can be counted, compared, measured, and manipulated statistically. –Data analysis techniques include Descriptive statistics - averages, means, percentiles, and frequency distribution Inferential statistics - sign tests, simple linear regression, and chi-square

Evaluation Methods Qualitative Methods –Rooted in direct contact with the people involved in a program –Data collection Interviews direct or field observation review of certain documents

Evaluation Recap Focus on assessing the projected results Assess the efficiency of program methods Describe who will be evaluated and/or what will be measured State what information will be collected in the evaluation process State who will be responsible for making the assessment Discuss how the information and conclusions will be used

Next Week By Wednesday – Worksheet 3.1 and 5.2 Proposal Goal and Objectives –Read Developing Your Methods pages –Read Developing Future Funding Strategies pages 35-39