A Model for Evaluating Programs for the Gifted under Non-experimental Conditions

Abstract

The author describes an evaluation model for assessing programs for the gifted under non-experimental conditions, which are typical of educational settings, and then presents a sample evaluation to illustrate the application of the model. The model consists of four components: ex post facto designs including intact groups, comparative evaluation, strength of treatment and multiple outcome assessment from flexible data sources. It is based upon three assumptions: 1) meaningful data for program evaluations can be obtained without performing tightly controlled experiments, which are usually impractical for field settings, 2) suitable instrumentation is available or can be constructed to measure student outcomes, and 3) appropriate comparison groups can be obtained in the school setting to provide a test for curricula for the gifted. It is the author's contention that proper use of the model in field settings can provide relevant program evaluation information correlated with program effectiveness. These findings, if properly interpreted, can be helpful to decision makers who make formative and summative decisions about programs for the gifted.