Connecting Program Evaluation Strategies with the Program Life Cycle: Implications for Family Development Programs

Abstract

Family professionals and family program staff need to consider the importance of program evaluation in Korea since an increasing number of Healthy Family Support Centers are providing diverse intervention and education programs. The purpose of this research paper is to (a) introduce a program evaluation model that includes the program life cycle; (b) help family professionals and family program staff understand the link between program implementation and evaluation processes; and (c) facilitate discussions in terms of program evaluation of Healthy Family Support Centers and evaluation roles of different levels of Healthy Family Support Centers including the headquarters, regional, and local centers. Understanding the program life cycle and relevant evaluation processes will help family professionals and family program staff be more strategic in answering critical questions about a program's effectiveness. The benefits of program evaluation and its implications are discussed.