Publication Date

8-1981

Advisor(s) - Committee Chair

William Pfohl, John O'Connor, Richard Miller

Comments

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Degree Program

Department of Psychology

Degree Type

Master of Arts

Abstract

The implementation and use of program evaluation strategies within rehabilitation programs have recently been mandated. Accountability measures applied to service delivery systems are now becoming an integral part of the accreditation process.

Elements of program evaluation systems which can provide a sound data base for future rehabilitation efforts are enumerated. The importance of needs assessment and methodologies of these assessments are presented and defined in terms applicable to the rehabilitation setting. The present study applied needs assessment techniques in a sheltered workshop setting for the purpose of identifying specific program needs of the immediate community and client population. The system was designed to be compatible with the goals and objects of the rehabilitation facility. It is simple and easily understood by those using it. The data obtained will be objective and observable in quantifiable dimensions. The time and effort spent for implementation will be minimal and compatible with the facility's resources. The paper work requirements and data collection are also minimal. The system does not interfere with the rights and needs of the client. And finally, the system is flexible enough to be generally applicable to other sheltered workshops having similar programs.

The design and proposed implementation of the program evaluation system in this paper are structured to meet the needs of the Cave Lake Workshop. The present project designs an evaluation system for the expressed purpose of meeting accreditation standards. Other uses of program evaluation are also discussed, each dictates different evaluation methodologies. Specific materials, processes, and methodologies used in the present project were chosen because they best fit the needs, level of staff sophistication, and resources available to the Cave Lake Workshop.

Program evaluations can be tailored to the specific setting and uses of information provided by the system. The anticipated rewards are in the form of improved program effectiveness and efficiency, effective communication of goals and objectives, increased ability to maintain or expand services, accreditation and funding sources. Program evaluation methods are necessary to document, measure and monitor the progress of programs with these goals.

Disciplines

Industrial and Organizational Psychology | Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences

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