Recording observations is done through one or more of the following means:
Observation guides
Recording sheets or checklists
Field notes
Pictures
Combinations
Who can observe?
There is a common misperception that direct observation for evaluation purposes need to be undertaken only by the educator. That is incorrect. There are many options for observers that have unique considerations and benefits for their involvement. They include:
Participants
Stakeholders
Colleagues
Volunteers
If you decide to include others in using observation for evaluation, it is critical that each person is trained. You want to ensure that they are using the instrument correctly and are making observation consistently. You can learn more by reading the following publications:
University of Wisconsin Extension - Collecting Evaluation Data: Direct Observation
Centers for Disease Control – Data Collection Methods for Program Evaluation: Observation
UCLA Center for Health Policy Research – Direct Observation and Photovoice
Focus Groups
Although focus group interviews were first used in the private sector as a tool for conducting market research, the technique has gained popularity with Extension professionals as a means of designing programs and assessing outcomes (Krueger & Casey, 2000). One reason focus groups are used frequently is that the interviews yield rich, qualitative information which can be used to identify what should be done, what worked and what did not, and why. The latter helps identify ways to improve the program. Focus group interviews also facilitate collection of “success stories”— the kind of information that puts a human face on accountability reports. Such information can be effective in communicating to stakeholders how the program has helped Extensions clientele.
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