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Session Title: Theory-Based Evaluation and Cultural Contexts
Multipaper Session 422 to be held in Room 108 in the Convention Center on Thursday, Nov 6, 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Sponsored by the Program Theory and Theory-driven Evaluation TIG
Chair(s):
Katrina Bledsoe,  Walter R McDonald and Associates Inc,  kbledsoe@wrma.com
Experiences with Theory-Based Evaluation: Views from Evaluators in Denmark
Presenter(s):
Peter Dahler-Larsen,  University of Southern Denmark,  pdl@sam.sdu.dk
Abstract: A discrepancy may exist between the text book version of an evaluation model and how it works under real-life conditions. Evaluators who have worked with a model constitute an important source of information about the latter. A web-based survey was conducted among evaluators in Denmark who had done theory-based evaluation. The survey results decribe why that model is chosen, how long time it takes, how the program theory is constructed, what the consequences of theory-based evaluation are, and what evaluators view as the major strengths and weaknesses of theory-based evaluation as they understand it.
Using the System of Care Practice Review (SOCPR) as a Quality Improvement Tool in a System of Care Community in Broward County Florida
Presenter(s):
Keren S Vergon,  University of South Florida,  vergon@fmhi.usf.edu
Norin Dollard,  University of South Florida,  dollard@fmhi.usf.edu
Linda Ross,  University of South Florida,  lross@fmhi.usf.edu
Abstract: One Community Partnership (OCP), along with the other CMHS-funded programs, embraces a system of care philosophy in which a comprehensive, coordinated, community-based system of care brings together all agencies and resources needed to provide services to children with SED. OCP completed three consecutive System of Care Practice Review (SOCPR) studies from 2004 through 2007. Scores from 2004 to 2007 showed improvement with the overall case score increasing from the neutral implementation range to the enhanced range. Similarly, all subdomain scores improved between 2004 and 2007. The greatest improvement was in cultural competence, followed by impact, and child-centered, family-focused. Community-based showed the least change, but was in the enhanced range in 2005. OCP has been successful at improving its inclusion of SOC values and principles in service practices across all domains. Strengths include the agency continuing to be accessible to families, providing services in the least restrictive environment, and case management.
The Iraq War Described in Logic Models
Presenter(s):
Uda Walker,  Gargani and Company Inc,  udaowalker@yahoo.com
John Gargani,  Gargani and Company Inc,  john@gcoinc.com
Abstract: The purpose of this presentation is to explore how we think about programs. In particular, I focus on how we represent our thinking with logic models. I present logic models and other diagrams used to plan the Iraq War in order to expose the cognitive traps that await us when we set out to develop and evaluate programs. I argue that programs are only as good as the thinking that goes into them, and that representations such as logic models are only as good as the thinking we get out of them. I suggest concrete ways that evaluators can strengthen their thinking and their representations in order to improve programs and policies, punctuating my suggestions with provocative examples.

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