ECUR 809 - Assignment #4

For this assignment we were asked to map out the program we are evaluating using a logic model, and then to describe the model that we created.

This Logic Model starts by looking at the Inputs of the program.  The Inputs are the things that the program needs before it can begin if it is going to reach its outcomes.  In the case of the Vanier CAP program, we determined the Inputs as; Classroom Teachers – those teachers that teach the regular classroom courses, CAP Teachers – The teachers that actually run the CAP program and work with the students within that program, The Administrators – those who make the decisions regarding how the program should run, and The Students – those students who are participating in the CAP Program.

Then the Logic Model looks at the Outputs of the CAP program.  The Outputs are the things that the program actually does during the program.  In the case of the CAP program, we determined the Outputs as… Developing lessons that meet the students’ missing objectives – this is done by the CAP Teachers in coordination with the Students.  Providing support for the students while they work towards completing the missing objectives – this is done by the CAP teachers in coordination with the Students.  Contacting students who have not received credits in previous semesters to enroll them in the program – this is done by the CAP teachers working with the Students.  And finally, recommending current students who should participate in the CAP program – this is done by the Classroom teacher in coordination with the CAP teacher.

Finally, the Logic Model looks at the Planned Outcomes of the CAP Program.  The Logic Model breaks the Outcomes into Short, Medium, and Long Range.  The Short Term Outcomes are… At risk students receive more one on one support from teachers.  Students are completing course work that could not otherwise be completed in traditional classroom.  Students who need help are identified during the semester before they fail.  And, communication between teachers regarding at risk students improves.  The Medium Term Outcomes are…Students develop work habits that allow them to be productive in traditional classroom and, students receive credits they wouldn't have otherwise received.  And the Long Term Outcome is that more students are graduating.

Mapping out the program in this format was very beneficial.  It helped me to get a better understanding of how the program is supposed to be working.  Having a model like this will be helpful when actually performing the evaluation because I can compare what is actually happening to what the program is supposed to be doing according to the original plans.

I have attached an image of the completed Logic Model in this post.