Wiley Program Evaluation Prism: Using Statistical Methods to Discover Patterns

This book is a comprehensive treatment of correlation/regression techniques and using SPSS for interpretation of findings. Striking a balance between detailed coverage and approachability, this book provides a thorough treatment of the elements of regression and how they can be used with real research problems in program evaluation.  The author begins with a basic introduction to evaluation methodology, and its ability to recognize embedded patterns of meaning in research data. Subsequent chapters explore the statistical tools that can be applied by researchers and evaluators irrespective of the design that was used to generate this data.Topics of coverage include: correlation, single predictor regression, multiple correlation, part and partial correlation, detection of extreme scores, multiple regression, regression with continuous predictors, coding of categorical data, regression with categorical predictors, methods for entering predictors in multiple regression, and interaction in multiple regression.Each chapter is presented in the same comprehensive format: an introduction to the topic, followed by a discussion of its primary elements, illustrations of the data through numerous tables and figures, SPSS procedures for designing the analysis, SPSS output of the analysis , and guidance on how to interpret findings from the analyses. Discover Note and Research Steps sections illustrate how using statistical processes can unveil unobserved patterns and assist readers with identifying such patterns in their own data. Real-world analyses are used throughout the book, utilizing meaningful social issues as a catalyst for teaching statistical procedures, and a related Web site features additional data sets, solutions, and research projects for readers. From the Inside Flap A hands-on treatment of essential statistical tools for data interpretation and evaluation in researchAcross various disciplines, it is important for researchers and professionals to have an advanced understanding of evaluation methods and procedures in order to identify the most valuable meanings and results from gathered data. The Program Evaluation Prism presents a thorough yet accessible guide to the use of regression and correlation methods for formulating questions and dissecting data in order to achieve effective problem solving in evaluation research. Providing detailed coverage in an accessible manner, this book presents the statistical tools necessary to find unobserved patterns that affect daily life, while also guiding readers to discover the dynamics hidden in their own research.The book begins with a basic introduction to evaluation methodology and its ability to recognize embedded patterns of meaning in research data. Subsequent chapters explore the statistical tools that can be applied irrespective of the design used to generate this data, such as correlation, regression, multiple regression, and detection of extreme scores. The author also provides in-depth coverage of techniques that are not extensively covered in the current literature on the topic, including:coding categorical dataconducting interaction analysesorder-of-entry methodsdata cleaningpart and partial correlationReal-world analyses incorporate meaningful social issues into the discussed techniques, and a final chapter discusses the Practical Application problems found throughout the book. Discover Note and Research Steps sections illustrate how using statistical processes can unveil unobserved patterns and assist readers with identifying such trends in their own data. SPSS® output is included throughout, and a related FTP site features large and small data sets for application of the book's procedures, SPSS® lab exercises, and access to modules and materials from the author's own coursework.The Program Evaluation Prism serves as an excellent book for courses on program evaluation and research methods at the upper-undergraduate and graduate levels.