Our Expertise
Applied Research and Evaluation
Program Evaluation
Our training and expertise allow us to evaluate virtually any program.
These can range from K12 educational programs (e.g., student curriculum,
after school programs) to higher education programs (e.g., Title V
grants, STEM grants, student retention programs) to corporate programs
(e.g., training programs, employee development programs). We provide our
clients with the information they need; whether it’s for program
improvement, federal reporting, or to decide a program’s fate.
Research Study Design
We specialize is conducting research in applied or “real world”
settings. We provide our clients with quality and accurate information,
and a key component to this process is designing the right study for
each individual project. We know that certain studies must meet specific
requirements (e.g., What Works Clearinghouse, Response to Intervention)
and we pride ourselves in our ability to design studies that are
rigorous and effective.
Logic Model Development
A logic model allows us and our clients to better understand the
complexities of programs we evaluate. We work closely with our clients
to craft logic models that clearly describe their programs.
Instrument Development- Many clients need customized instruments
specific to programs in order to gather the right data. We specialize in
creating surveys, content assessments, and other instruments that
provide our clients with the information they need.
Quantitative/Qualitative Data Collection
Collecting participant data is so much more than data entry. Interacting
with program participants requires superior interpersonal skills,
respect, and trust. From high response rates for surveys to in depth
interviews, our methods of data collection ensure accurate and reliable
results.
Quantitative/Qualitative Data Analysis
Our knowledge and skill in data analysis gives us the flexibility to
provide our clients with the right research design for their program
from the beginning. Data analysis requires the breadth of knowledge to
select the correct analysis for the data and the depth of knowledge to
truly understand what the data means.
Evaluation Capacity Building
After working with us, our clients develop a better understanding of
just how evaluation can provide them with essential information for
program improvement. In addition, we help clients build their own
capacity to better assess and improve their programs.
Proposal Writing/Program Design
Many of our clients choose to include us during the design phase of
their programs and grants. For example, we bolster proposals with an
impressive evaluation plan or build easy and effective methods to assess
progress into a training program. Our clients quickly realize the
benefit of considering evaluation strategy from the beginning.
Content Expertise
Culture and Diversity
Many programs focus on assisting minority and disadvantaged participants
succeed. We understand the importance and have the capacity to be
culturally sensitive and aware when working with our clients and their
program participants.
STEM Education
As the American government moves toward becoming more competitive with
the world in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math
(STEM), many of our clients grants are funded to increase students’
interest and ability in STEM education. Our experience and expertise in
STEM evaluation give our clients an edge in their proposals and ease the
process of reporting.
Technology
Many of our clients need to determine impact of technology within their
organizations. For example, as schools begin to incorporate new
technology into their classrooms it becomes essential to understand how
new digital media affects student performance. Our experience allows us
to assess the influence of technology in your organization.
Career Development
Many organizations have programs in place to help individuals in career
development. Our experience in this area, particularly when working with
minority groups, provides our clients with the information they need to
improve their programs.
Service Learning
We understand the value of students being engaged with their
communities, specifically through efforts that expand their educational
experiences outside the classroom and serve others. Several programs we
evaluate focus on facilitating community engagement through service
learning experiences, particularly linking to STEM education.
K12 Curricula
Educators are constantly incorporating new curricula in their
classrooms. We conduct research studies that examine the efficacy of
curricula in various content areas (e.g., mathematics, science,
literature). We work closely with clients to determine the best way of
assessing the impact of their curricula on student and teacher outcomes.
Training
Training is an essential component of most new programs or can be the
program itself, and we capture the impact of training on a variety of
individuals. Whether this is leadership development training, a new
pedagogy for teachers, or training for a new computer program, we
evaluate a variety of training initiatives to determine their
effectiveness.
