Hi everyone, an update! We have decided to utilize an online and paper-based survey to seek the views of gay and bisexual men about our program and their sexual behavior and practices. However, I heard that the data collection methods and analysis used in program evaluation are the same as those used in a standard research project. Is this true? If yes, it would be too difficult for us to use the SPSS software.

Hope it helps!

Oh! That’s a good suggestion!

Yes. It is true. The focus of all data collection centers on providing relevant data for the evaluation. The use of surveys, key informant interviews, and focus groups is common in program evaluation. You may also consider some qualitative methods as they could provide rich information for you to understand the experience of your participants. Besides, if you only use quantitative data, then you have to do the statistics. After analysis, the data are used in the process of drawing evaluative conclusions. Besides, you could also try access existing data. However, you should be aware that where possible existing data already collected by the program or by others should be reviewed to establish whether it is suitable and relevant to use.