Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - CRIM 865 G100

Research Methods VI: The Theory and Practice of Program Evaluation (3)

Class Number: 4119

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    CRIM 860 or permission of instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Topics, issues and techniques in program evaluation within criminological research. The specific subject matter will vary according to instructor interests and specialization. Specific areas of concentration may include: needs assessment, program theory, logic models, process evaluation design and implementation, outcome evaluation design and implementation, and cost-benefit analysis.

COURSE DETAILS:

This applied course focuses on the theory and practice of designing evaluations for programs targeting delinquency, criminality, and antisocial behaviour. How can we be confident that programs are ‘working’ and that resources are being used effectively? Students in this course will learn how to carefully design process and impact evaluations, with attention paid to the differences between theory and practice and the challenges of working with different types of stakeholders. Case studies will be used to highlight real-world examples of program evaluation.

Grading

  • Class participation 10%
  • Homework and paper critiques 25%
  • Program evaluation proposal briefing presentation 10%
  • Program evaluation proposal 55%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Rossi, P. H., Lipsey, M. W., & Henry, G. T. (2019). Evaluation: A Systematic Approach. (8th Ed.) Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. 9781506307886

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.