Evaluation

Evaluation

The climate-fit (klimafit) project was accompanied by an extensive evaluation process. In this regard, the evaluation concept was closely oriented on the ‘logical model approach’ (e.g. Rush and Ogborne 1991; Julian et al., 1995; Wholey et. al, 2004) (Table 1). The ‘logical model’ concept is essentially an evaluation and planning instrument that makes it possible to examine the interconnections between input, output, outcomes and potential impacts. The first evaluation took place immediately before the course began, in the form of a questionnaire distributed to the participants in order to determine the baseline (status quo). The participants were asked to answer questions on e.g. their expectations, background knowledge, and media skills. Once the course was over, an online survey was used to gain feedback on its format and content. The participants’ responses provided valuable insights into the quality of the course and made it possible to identify areas with room for improvement, helping to refine the model for use nationwide.

Important questions that the evaluation is intended to answer:

  1. What information does the evaluation provide us with on the course’s structure and the participants’ expectations?
  2. How can we use the evaluation to assess, adapt and refine our blended learning format?
  3. Which (current or future) indicators can we use to assess the climate-fit (klimafit) course?
  4. Which indicators can we use to assess participants’ learning processes and knowledge growth?
  5. Which indicators can we use to determine whether or not the participants have since assumed active roles?
  6. Which indicators can we use to measure the degree of networking achieved by the course?

The evaluation will be provided by the communications agency ecolo  – Agentur für Ökologie und Kommunikation in Bremen. As the project progresses, the results of the evaluation will be shared here.