Pre-Award Online Tutorial

Table of Contents

1. Welcome and Introduction
2. Module 1: Introduction to Sponsored Funding
3. Module 2: Funding Tools
4. Module 3: Proposal Development
   1. Pre Test
   2. Common Flaws
   3. Abstract/Executive Summary
   4. Introduction
   5. Problem Statement
   6. Goals and Objectives
   7. Work Plan
   8. Evaluation Plan
   9. Developing Your Budget
   10. Common Budget Categories
   11. Budget Justification
   12. Other Relevant Information
   13. Post Test
   14. Frequently Asked Questions
   15. Glossary
   16. Resources
5. Module 4: Submitting Your Application

Evaluation Plan

The evaluation section of the proposal provides an overall description of the evaluative process. The evaluation plan should flow from the identified goals and objectives and the methodology for accomplishing them. The basic evaluation questions that will be answered with thorough program planning include the following:

- What is the project attempting to accomplish?

- What will happen during the course of the project that will indicate whether or not the project has succeeded in accomplishing what it set out to accomplish?

The evaluation can include both formative and summative evaluation components.

Formative evaluation monitors project activities as they progress; assesses whether processes and procedures are working, whether project materials are sound and effective, and whether clients/participants are satisfied with services; and finally, it produces information which is used to improve the project during its operation.

In contrast, summative evaluation looks at data collected and analyzed to assess the project's ultimate effectiveness and impact. Its major purpose is to document the extent to which the project achieved its immediate and long-term outcomes. The steps to successful evaluation include content, collection, compilation, analysis, and reporting.

Either internal or external evaluators may be used to conduct the evaluation; this may be dictated by the funding source. Regardless, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Internal evaluators are usually program staff, colleagues, or project participants. These individuals may know more about the real issues related to the program, and their observations may be most trustworthy and useful; however, they also may be biased. External evaluators, on the other hand, are consultants or experts in the field of service provision or research. They may add credibility and objectivity; however, they may be costly.

In summary, don't try to evaluate everything; remain flexible and be willing to make changes throughout the project period. Unexpected results may prove to be the most important outcome of the evaluation plan! The evaluation provides another important benefit- it can produce information to assess the need for another grant project/program.