Formative Evaluation

Definition

Formative evaluation is a process used to assess and improve a program or product during its development or implementation. This type of evaluation provides ongoing feedback that can help refine and enhance effectiveness, ensuring that the final outcome meets the intended goals and objectives. Formative evaluation is crucial for adapting strategies based on real-time data and stakeholder input, making it a dynamic component of technology assessment methodologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Formative evaluation focuses on continuous improvement, allowing for modifications during the development phase rather than waiting until the end.
2. This type of evaluation involves collecting qualitative and quantitative data from various stakeholders to understand their experiences and perceptions.
3. The process emphasizes collaboration, encouraging input from designers, users, and other stakeholders to create a more effective outcome.
4. One of the key features of formative evaluation is its iterative nature, enabling repeated cycles of feedback and adjustment throughout the development process.
5. Formative evaluations can help identify potential challenges early on, making it easier to address issues before they escalate into larger problems.

Review Questions

• How does formative evaluation differ from summative evaluation in terms of timing and purpose?
  • Formative evaluation occurs during the development or implementation of a program or product, aiming to provide ongoing feedback for improvement. In contrast, summative evaluation takes place after implementation to assess overall effectiveness and impact. The purpose of formative evaluation is to make adjustments based on real-time data and stakeholder input, while summative evaluation focuses on measuring outcomes against predefined objectives.
• What role does stakeholder input play in the formative evaluation process, and how can it influence outcomes?
  • Stakeholder input is critical in formative evaluation as it provides diverse perspectives that can shape the direction of a project. By engaging users, designers, and other stakeholders in the evaluation process, teams can gather valuable insights that highlight strengths and areas needing improvement. This collaborative approach not only fosters ownership among stakeholders but also enhances the likelihood of successful implementation by addressing concerns early on.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of formative evaluation in technology assessment methodologies, considering its impact on program design and user satisfaction.
  • Formative evaluation is highly effective in technology assessment methodologies as it allows for adaptive program design that responds to user needs and preferences. By implementing iterative feedback loops throughout development, teams can refine their approaches based on real-world experiences, resulting in more user-centered solutions. This not only improves overall satisfaction but also leads to better alignment with intended goals, ultimately enhancing the efficacy and sustainability of technological interventions.

Related terms

Summative Evaluation: Summative evaluation assesses a program or product after its implementation to determine its overall effectiveness and impact.

Feedback Loop: A feedback loop is a process where information about the output of a system is used to adjust or improve the system itself.

Needs Assessment: Needs assessment is a systematic approach to determining the needs of a group or organization, often serving as a precursor to formative evaluation.