CDC Program Evaluation Framework Action Guide

Purpose

The Program Evaluation Framework Action Guide serves as a comprehensive resource to assist new or early career evaluators with applying the CDC Program Evaluation Framework across a range of programs and settings. This Action Guide serves as a how-to guide for planning, designing, and implementing evaluations in a practical way.

Topics Covered

The following foundational objectives are covered in this Action Guide:

  • Defining program evaluation, its importance and the types of program evaluation
  • Distinguishing program evaluation from other related areas such as surveillance, research and program monitoring
  • Defining cross-cutting actions and evaluation standards
  • Understanding how to apply evaluation standards and integrate cross-cutting actions from the CDC Program Evaluation Framework into your program evaluation approaches
  • Identifying the approach and practical application(s) of the evaluation framework
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Circular graphic with center, middle, and outer rings displaying the standards, steps, and cross-cutting actions of the CDC Evaluation Framework.
CDC Program Evaluation Graphic

How to Use the Action Guide

This guide is a starting point for planning, implementing, and conducting program evaluations. It provides practical applications of the CDC Program Evaluation Framework to any program evaluation. Although this framework is often discussed as a linear process, conducting program evaluation is iterative. This Action Guide is intended to support your current evaluation needs and help you develop robust program evaluations. The guide is separated by each step of the CDC Program Evaluation Framework and can be used as a stand-alone resource.

The following features are included within each step to help with navigation:

  1. Key points. Important tips to help you understand the main objectives of each step.
  2. Overview and importance. Explanation of each step at a high-level and discussion of the benefits of implementing this step within the evaluation process.
  3. Applying the cross-cutting actions and evaluation standards. Explanation of how to integrate these foundational principles throughout each step of the framework.

For detailed case examples and worksheets that you can adapt for your evaluation, refer to the full-length CDC Program Evaluation Framework Action Guide.

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Content Source:
About CDC Approach to Program Evaluation; About Office of Policy, Performance, and Evaluation