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Designing and implementing program evaluation for Latino and Native American populations: Perspectives from community-based tobacco control projects

Jean X. Campbell, BA1, Eva Matthews, MPH1, Maribel Tobar, MS1, and Myra L. Muramoto, MD, MPH2. (1) College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1450 N. Cherry Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719, 520-626-1085, campbel@u.arizona.edu, (2) College of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, 1450 N. Cherry Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85721

Introduction: To investigate how community-based programs serving Native American and Latino populations plan and implement tobacco control evaluation, research was conducted in two states to examine state and community level evaluation program activities. Methods: Semi-structured interviews over a period of six months at state, intermediary, and community levels identified several evaluation practices shared between communities. Results: The community programs reported sharply divergent evaluation activities as a result of distinct state planning approaches that formulated subsequent contractual expectations. In the first state, contract-specific evaluation goals and objectives were identified and tied to program evaluation, and funding was linked to performance-based evaluation results. In the second state, evaluation was subcontracted at the local level, and activities varied widely between local projects, with communities selecting evaluation approaches based on the limits of their particular staff and resources, as well as the degree of state guidance and technical assistance available. Communities in the second state expressed confidence in obtaining technical assistance, but reported inconsistencies in evaluation, including directives from the state, resource allotment, and staffing. In both states, challenges specific to Native American populations included inability to design and implement evaluation activities due to lack of program capacity, particularly staff expertise and training, as well as cultural and legal barriers that prevented the collection, use, and distribution of personal data. Latino communities identified challenges related to program priorities and knowledge of effective evaluation processes. Conclusion: Community-level evaluation experiences suggest the need for clear program evaluation structure, consistent contract requirements, staff training, and incremental implementation.

Learning Objectives:

  • At the end of this discussion, participants will be able to

    Keywords: Evaluation, Special Populations

    Presenting author's disclosure statement:
    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.

    Innovative Applications of Community Based Research

    The 132nd Annual Meeting (November 6-10, 2004) of APHA