When considering the kinds of ideas, methods, and techniques we’re discussing, of course it’s easy and obvious to think of them in the context of research studies as you might read them in a journal or hear them at a conference presentation. But these techniques are not strictly limited to those domains.
There is an increasing emphasis in many aspects of the information world (libraries, and other institutions as well) on assessment, to know how well a program or service is operating, what results are being achieved for its clientele or population, and particularly these days what value it is providing for a parent institution, funding source, community, etc. Having an idea about how assessment could work in such environments will likely be a useful and valuable skill moving forward.
This assignment will give you the opportunity to develop just such an idea. Your group of 2 or 3 will prepare a report for the senior management of an institution (real, of your choice), outlining a plan for assessing the impact of, or making the case for, the value of a program or service, existing or planned. You may choose any institution and program you like; I’d appreciate hearing your thoughts on what you have in mind but I don’t necessary need to approve them in advance.
The document you prepare should be professional in form and tone (as compared to an academic paper). It should concisely describe the institution, context, clientele, population, etc., as well as the product, service, program in question, its goals and operation (either ongoing or planned), and then lay out your plan for assessment, including relevant questions, approaches, methods, analytical techniques, audience(s), and desired outcomes of the assessment.
Your work will be evaluated on your demonstrated understanding of the context and research concepts involved, insight and thoroughness of your work, appropriateness of your decisions and recommendations for the setting and program, and the overall quality of your presentation.
The assignment is due at 1:30pm on February 24.