Discussion Post: Translating Knowledge from an Evaluation Report- Applying Knowledge of Research in Program Evaluation
While there is benefit to acquiring knowledge for its own sake, social work research and program evaluations are not merely academic exercises. Both social work research and the various types of program evaluations you have studied throughout this course should be used to directly improve day-to-day practice and service to clients. Social workers have the responsibility not only to conduct program evaluations and research but also share the knowledge they possess for the benefit of others. Modern technologies have given social workers the ability to quickly and easily share the results of their research and evaluation to improve social work practice on a large scale.
You analyze the process of sharing evaluation results with others. You also analyze the applicability of what you have learned in this course to your future as a social work student and working professional.
Learning Objectives
1) Analyze the process of presenting evaluation results to others
2) Evaluate strategies for presenting evaluation results to others
3) Analyze the applicability of social work research and program evaluation to future goals
Instructors and professors often comment that they learn much more about their subject matter when they begin to teach it. When they try to explain the topic to someone else they begin to connect concepts in new ways. They anticipate questions that students might ask, consider different viewpoints, and think more critically.
For this Discussion, take the perspective of someone who is instructing his or her colleagues and sharing your understanding of research methods and program evaluation.
To prepare for the Discussion, select an evaluation report from this week's resources. Consider how you would present the information to a group of colleagues.
Task
1) An analysis of how you would present the results of the evaluation to a group of social work colleagues.
2) Identify the background information that you think they would need and the key message of your presentation.
3) Explain the strategies that you might use to meet your colleagues' interests and goals.
4) Identify 3 questions that your colleagues might have and what their reactions might be.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.