CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Introduction

1. Descriptive Statistics in Evaluation
2. Subgroup Analysis
3. Variable - Are They Related?
4. Correlation
5. The t-Test of Difference Between Means

Supplements
Resources
Glossary

Wading Through the Data Swamp:
Program Evaluation 201

Module Content Objectives Background Comparing Means Attrition Versus Loss to Followup New Information: Change Scores and Participation How To Construct Scatter Plots How To Interpret Scatter Plots Linear Relationship Strength of the Relationship: Pearson's Correlation Coefficient What Do All the Numbers and Plots Mean? Adding Points to a Scatter Plot Lessons Learned: What Jack Should Have Asked His Evaluator What Did Jack Learn About His Program From These Analyses? How Can Jack Use This Statistical Information to Improve His Program? How Can Jack Use This Statistical Information To Better Promote His Program? Module 4 Quiz

How Can Jack Use This Statistical Information to Improve His Program?

Jack's program has shown some success. But a program can only be effective when it is attended. Jack needs to find ways to increase attendance throughout the duration of the program. To do so, Jack might consider:

• Providing incentives, such as special activities and certificates for students with excellent attendance.
• Providing giveaways each day to the kids who attend. If Jack partners with others within the community, such as the local movie theater, he might be abe to provide great incentives for FREE.
• Playing fun educational games like substance abuse prevention JEOPARDY! Make it fun and the kids will attend.