The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48285

William Trochim, PhD, Policy Analyses and Management, Cornell University, 132MVR Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, Stephen Marcus, PhD, NCI, Tobacco Control Evaluation Branch, 6130 Executive Boulevard, Room 4039B, MSC 7337, Bethesda, MD 20892, Louise Mâsse, PhD, Cancer Control and Population Sciences Division, National Cancer Institute, Executive Plaza North, Suite 4076, 6130 Executive Blvd., Rockville, MD 20852, and Ginny Hsieh, PhD MPH, Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, Executive Plaza North, Suite 4099, 6130 Executive Blvd., Rockville, MD 20852, 301-594-6984, wmt1@cornell.edu.

Cancer research, as well as other scientific research, is becoming increasingly complex, requiring large resource commitments, collaboration among researchers, multidisciplinary perspectives on treatments and communication to the public. Evaluations are needed to provide accountability, foster program improvement, assess what works, and for purposes of planning and resource allocation. However, techniques for evaluating the impact of research efforts have lagged behind more routine program evaluation. The ELI project at the NCI aims to improve the capacity for, and quality of, evaluations of large initiatives. This presentation describes capacity building efforts including raising awareness about evaluation, reviewing current practice, developing evaluation models, tools and templates, conducting evaluation case studies and, communicating results. A variety of specific methods will be discussed including multivariate analysis, concept mapping, logic modeling, initiative life-cycle modeling, development of measurement scales and survey instruments, and database and website development. Data is presented both on the scope of the evaluation challenge and from specific evaluation case studies. The implications of the ELI Project as a model for evaluation of large initiatives at other public health agencies, and organizations that fund clinical or community-based research endeavors will be emphasized.

Learning Objectives:

• 1.Describe a process for evaluation capacity building within an organization
• 2.Articulate the conceptual view of a life-cycle model in evaluation
• 3.Provide examples of evaluation and results of evaluation case studies
• 4.Describe implications for evaluation in public health

Keywords: Evaluation, Evidence Based Practice

Related Web page: omni.cornell.edu/ncievaluation/ELI/ELI.htm

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Behavioral Research Program
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.