Transformational Programming

The “Transformational Programming” workshop at the 2012 Links Western Area Leadership Summit encouraged attendees to work together.

Link Diane Scott, chairperson of Western Area programs, provided strategies to help chapters foster effective program assessment. 

The template for smart goals includes an evaluation of each project’s reliability. Evaluations should assess whether programs are realistic and responsible. For example, programs with a STEM emphasis should inspire, engage and educate participants. The ultimate goal is to help participants become gainfully employed in STEM occupations. 

Panelists also discussed the importance of incorporating the service delivery model in chapter projects to help users think through issues. Key questions include: 

Why do we integrate? 

·      To conserve our resources 

·      Collaboration

·      To meet the needs of target groups

How do we integrate?

·      More than one facet working together 

·      100 percent participation 

·      Participate and be strong 

When we work as a team, we grow stronger. Man power plus brainpower equals ideas. 

Finally, panelists discussed how chapters might assess the final product. Outcomes, or what you expect to happen, may be measured using the following:

·      Review of priorities and goals

·      Measurements 

·      Sustainability 

·      Impact 

·      Allocation of resources going forward 

·      See changes in behavior 

·      Long-term change 

Evaluation piece should be a part of the program 

·      Focus groups 

·      Midpoint assessment

·      Interpretation of evaluation