Program Evaluation: An Extension Specialist

1
Program Evaluation An Extension Specialists
Perspective

• Joseph E. Morris
• Department of Natural Resource Ecology and
  Management
• Iowa State University

2
Where does aquaculture fit?
3
Statement of Issue

• Can be difficult to describe

4
Performance Goals

• Basic vs detailed aquaculture information
• Different audiences

5
Key Program Components

• Workshops
• Varied audiences
• Publications
• What is available from other states/regions?
• Prioritize
• What form best fit client needs?

6
Outcome Indicators

• Output indicators
• Numbers
• Easiest to measure

7
Outcome Indicators

• Difficult to assess
• Number of culturists?
• Relationship to extension programming
• Number advised not to pursue aquaculture
• Impacts????

8
Internal and External Partners

• Internal
• Other departments
• External
• Natural resource agencies
• State Department of Ag
• Aquaculturists

9
Targeted Audiences

• New vs established culturists
• Different expectations

10
Allocated Resources

• Public funds are often limited
• Client costs
• Grants

11
Additional Observations

• University standard evaluation forms
• Viewed with limited enthusiasm by audiences,
  county and state extension
• Evaluation of workshops often an afterthought
• Many extension specialists are aware of the
  increasing need for program evaluation but are
  often frustrated with the process

12
Conclusions

• Better education of extension specialists in
  outcome assessment
• Split extension appointments complicate the
  evaluation
• Paperwork overload