Practical Program Evaluation For Criminal Justice

About this book

Practical Program Evaluation for Criminal Justice shows readers how to apply the principles of fiscal responsibility accountability and evidence-based practice to criminal justice reform plans. Unlike other policy-based texts which tend to focus more on implementation than assessment this book provides applicable step-by-step instruction on determining an initiatives necessity prior to its adoption (reducing the risk of wasting resources) as well as how to accurately gauge its effectiveness during initial roll-out stages. The book gradually introduces basic data analysis procedures and statistical techniques which once mastered can be used to prove or disprove a programs worth. Lastly the book introduces the types of stakeholders who should review evaluation results for quick action as well as how to best structure reports to ensure their buy-in. Individually examines every major evaluation type (as well as the benefits concerns and constraints of each) including needs theory process outcome/impact and cost efficiency Defines the precise data points each evaluation type requires and the exact manner in which this data can be collected Demonstrates how different types of evaluations can be used together to provide clear information regarding a programs overall performance level Cites and makes use of real-world policy evaluations and vetted programs