Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Design Evaluation Frameworks: Develop comprehensive evaluation frameworks that outline objectives, indicators, and methodologies for assessing public interventions.
  • Apply Quantitative and Qualitative Methods: Utilize both quantitative and qualitative methods to measure the impact and effectiveness of public policies and programs.
  • Analyze Data and Interpret Results: Collect, analyze, and interpret data to draw evidence-based conclusions about the success and shortcomings of public interventions.
  • Communicate Findings: Present evaluation results clearly and effectively to stakeholders, including policymakers, program managers, and the public.
  • Critically Assess Evaluations: Critically evaluate existing public interventions and their evaluations to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Goals

This course focuses on the systematic assessment of public interventions and policies, aiming to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and equity of governmental and non-governmental programs. It provides students with the tools and methodologies to evaluate the impact of various public interventions on society and the economy.


 

Content

Course Content:

  • Introduction to Evaluation: Overview of the principles and purpose of public intervention evaluation.
  • Evaluation Frameworks: Designing logical frameworks and theories of change for evaluating public programs.
  • Methodologies: Detailed exploration of various evaluation methodologies, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs, case studies, surveys, and interviews.
  • Data Collection and Analysis: Techniques for collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data.
  • Impact Assessment: Measuring the impact of interventions on targeted outcomes and assessing cost-effectiveness.
  • Ethical Considerations: Understanding the ethical issues related to evaluating public interventions.
  • Reporting and Utilization: Strategies for reporting findings and ensuring that evaluation results are used effectively to inform policy and practice.

 

Teaching methods

The course combines interactive lectures with dynamic in-class debates to foster a deeper understanding of evaluation concepts. Approximately half of the course will be taught by a practitioner with real-world experience in public intervention evaluation, providing students with practical insights and hands-on knowledge. This approach ensures a blend of theoretical and practical perspectives, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Assessment method

 

  • Practical Assignment: Students will engage in hands-on assignments to conduct evaluations of real-world public interventions.
  • Exam: To test understanding of evaluation methodologies and concepts

Language of instruction

English