Online Program

329716
A Pilot Study on an Evaluation Framework used in 10 countries


Monday, November 2, 2015

Priti Gautam, MPH, International Programs, Safe Kids Worldwide, Washington, DC
Background: From 2011-2014, the Model School Zone pilot project was implemented in 10 countries to improve pedestrian safety around 10 schools. The multi-country pilot study utilized an evaluation framework that was adapted in each community, resulting in varying and comparable results.

Methods: The project was implemented in three phases over an 18 month period. During Phase I, grantees selected a school based on specific criteria and conducted a baseline/needs assessment. Project and research tools included school zone infrastructure assessment tool, student knowledge and behavior surveys, participatory research tools and parent surveys. In Phase II, grantees implemented interventions based on the needs and risks identified. Interventions focused on permanent infrastructure changes but also included education and advocacy initiatives. In Phase III, grantees evaluated effectiveness of interventions.

Results: Behavioral surveys with 1,606 children showed that most walk to and from school, most walk alone, and most do not feel safe while walking near their schools. Baseline parent surveys revealed that more than half felt uncomfortable letting their child walk to school, with speed of cars the highest rated concern. Permanent modifications were made to environments around 10 schools in 10 countries. The interventions showed behavior and injury change in participating communities. In Vietnam, for example, the number of fatalities in the community decreased by three fold.

Conclusion: The results of the project showed that the evaluation framework was adaptable across low-, middle- and high- income countries, and can help measure changes in infrastructure, road user behaviors and health outcomes.

Learning Areas:

Administer health education strategies, interventions and programs
Advocacy for health and health education
Diversity and culture
Program planning

Learning Objectives:
Discuss results, best practices and lessons learned from implementing the Model School Zone project in 10 countries. Describe multi-country evaluation approach, including the successes and challenges. Explain phases of the Model School Zone methodology and how to utilize the tools in various communities.

Keyword(s): Violence & Injury Prevention, International Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: Priti Gautam manages Safe Kids Worldwide’s international pedestrian safety program that operates in ten countries outside of the United States. She has nearly seven years of experience in global health related program planning, evaluation and research. Priti gave an oral presentation on this topic at the 2013 Walk21 Conference and the 2013 iRAP Global Innovation Workshop at the World Bank.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.