Program Evaluation Competencies of ExtensionProfessionals: Implications for ContinuingProfessional Development

摘要

As states face tough economic times, extension organizations are increasingly emphasizing theimportance of evaluation data to show program value. However, little is known about the evaluationskills and abilities of extension professionals expected to collect such data. This knowledge would helpinform professional development opportunities designed to target evaluation–related deficiencies. Aneeds assessment was conducted with Georgia extension professionals to determine the evaluationcompetencies that provided the greatest opportunity for professional development. Results highlightedcompetencies within two constructs, analyzing questionnaire data and disseminating evaluation findings,which accounted for seven of the top 10 competencies with the greatest need. The continuingprofessional development needs of agents varied based on primary program area and experience level,indicating a need for even more targeted continuing professional development. Agents with five or feweryears of experience needed the most professional development in the areas of data collection whereasagents with more experience needed assistance with data analysis and reporting. Continuingprofessional development to build evaluation competencies in Georgia extension educators should alsovary depending on the primary programming responsibilities of the participating extension professional.Although extension professionals with primary responsibilities in Agriculture and Natural Resourcesneeded the most assistance with analyzing questionnaire data, those with primarily 4–H responsibilitiesneeded help disseminating evaluation findings in reports.