Postgraduate - UnitHSC5022 - Evaluating public health programs

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will equip students with skills to evaluate disease prevention and health promotion strategies using a range of methodologies. An emphasis will be placed on the evaluation challenges posed by the complexities of public health action and the contexts in which it is carried out, with case studies used to foster an understanding of these issues.

Outcomes

1. Distinguish between levels of evaluation recognise how these are linked to program plans;
2. Select qualitative designs that are appropriate for different evaluation questions;
3. Identify the range of quantitative study designs that can be employed and the strengths and weaknesses of these for different strategies and contexts;
4. Describe methods to measure indicators at all levels of evaluation;
5. Develop survey questions and interview guides that demonstrate an understanding of measurement quality;
6. Describe the strengths and weaknesses of different methods of respondent sampling;
7. Develop a comprehensive evaluation plan.

Assessment

Comparison and analysis of evaluation design options (30%)
Development of impact measurement instrument (30%)
Evaluation plan (40%)

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Ben Smith