A Three Stage Process for Effective Program Evaluation

The program evaluation process outlined here is one that has been specifically designed to examine technology's impact on student achievement. It is one which has been used very successfully in large and small school districts to assess initiatives ranging from grant-funded projects to the implementation of entire district technology plans. Regardless of scope, the same three basic "stages" apply. These are:

Stage 1: Establish Process and Create Indicators
Stage 2: Collect and Analyze Data
Stage 3: Recommend and Report

Effective technology evaluation develops your capacity to improve, build upon, and effectively integrate educational technology district-wide. A district's data can be combined with research-based knowledge on how technology can improve teaching and learning and used to inspire reflection and change. The Three Stage Technology Evaluation will help you visualize what is possible in your district and reach that vision.

Program Evaluation in NCLB

The 'Enhancing Education Through Technology' portion of the NCLB Act (Title II-D) specifically calls for school districts to outline "the process and accountability measures that the applicant will use to evaluate the extent to which activities...are effective in integrating technology into curricula and instruction, increasing the ability of teachers to teach, and enabling students to meet challenging State academic content and student academic achievement standards."