Which evaluation type occurs during development of the program while activities are being implemented for the first time?

Which evaluation type occurs during development of the program while activities are being implemented for the first time?

• A. Formative evaluation
• B. Process evaluation
• C. Summative evaluation
• D. Impact evaluation

Answer: (A)

Formative evaluation occurs during program development and initial implementation to refine components, materials, and delivery while the activities are being tried for the first time. It focuses on learning what works, identifying issues, and making adjustments before full-scale rollout. This is different from process evaluation, which looks at how the program is being implemented and whether activities occurred as planned; summative evaluation, conducted after implementation, assesses overall effectiveness and outcomes; and impact evaluation examines changes in targeted outcomes due to the program. Because the question centers on improving and testing the program during its development and first use, formative evaluation is the best fit.

Formative evaluation occurs during program development and initial implementation to refine components, materials, and delivery while the activities are being tried for the first time. It focuses on learning what works, identifying issues, and making adjustments before full-scale rollout. This is different from process evaluation, which looks at how the program is being implemented and whether activities occurred as planned; summative evaluation, conducted after implementation, assesses overall effectiveness and outcomes; and impact evaluation examines changes in targeted outcomes due to the program. Because the question centers on improving and testing the program during its development and first use, formative evaluation is the best fit.