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The Value of Meta-Analytic Research When Formulating an Evaluation Plan: Implications for Return on Investment in a Federally Funded Wellness Initiative
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| Presenter(s):
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| Karen Larwin, Youngstown State University, drklarwin@yahoo.com
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| David Larwin, Kent State University at Salem, dlarwin@yahoo.com
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| Abstract:
This paper demonstrates the value of conducting a thorough evaluation of existent research when developing a plan to establish return on investment (ROI) of program activities. For this project, evaluators used meta-analysis to synthesize the available research examining ROI for corporate-based wellness initiatives. The results from this meta-analytic investigation were used to develop a comprehensive ROI strategy. The resultant multi-level approach to ROI demonstrated to stakeholders that the ROI for the original initiative had systemic implications and was sustainable. The presentation of the results from the meta-analysis encouraged the stakeholders to agree to incorporate more indicators of ROI than what were originally proposed, and improved the credibility and value of the evaluation plan.
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A Powerful Method for the Evaluator's Toolbox: Using Meta-Analysis with Small Sample Sizes
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| Presenter(s):
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| Stephanie Beane, Southeast AIDS Training and Education Center, sbeane@emory.edu
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| Shenee Reid, Southeast AIDS Training and Education Center, sreid4@emory.edu
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| Rebecca Culyba, Southeast AIDS Training and Education Center, rculyba@emory.edu
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| Abstract:
The purpose of this presentation is to illuminate novel ways to apply effect size and meta-analytic techniques when facing limitations in evaluation data analysis. The presenters will address why significance tests are often inappropriate for small samples and suitable applications of meta-analysis for primary data. This presentation is appropriate for novice learners and will detail uses of meta-analysis with nested data sets of small sample sizes. While the focus of this presentation is on the analysis method used in a longitudinal evaluation, presenters will highlight training intervention effects for rural Ryan White clinic staff serving patients with HIV/AIDS. Results of a pre and post-training knowledge and skills assessment will be shared to demonstrate the utility of effect sizes, meta-analysis applications with primary data, random versus fixed effects models, forest plots, and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.
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