Evaluation is an important part of research. It allows you to assess how the research went, and what the results mean. From this you can plan appropriate responses, and shape future research projects.
Learning evaluation as a skill is very valuable. Below we’re sharing some resources for evaluation training. These are free to access.
Logic model resources
What Works logic model guide
Online guide from What Works on logic modelling
What Works logic model checklist
PDF checklist from What Works for logic modelling
Introduction to Theory of Change
Online training resources from NIRH Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West on theory of change.
Evaluation Resources
NHS Evaluation Toolkit
A toolkit created for the NHS on evaluation, full of resources and advice. The majority of the content is relevant for anyone undertaking evaluation outside of the NHS setting. It also works hand in hand with the NHS Evidence toolkit (see below). This was created by:
- NHS Bristol
- North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (BNSSG ICB)
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West)
- Health Innovation West of England.
Embedding evaluation checklist
A checklist created by Evaluation Support Scotland to help assess if your team is prepared for evaluation.
The Strategy Unit Guide to Evaluation design, principles and practice
Guide from the Strategy Unit that guides you through designing evaluation and presenting the results.
Evaluation template and examples
Evaluation project template
The evaluation project template was adapted from the NHS Digitising Social Care project. However it provides a good general template for evaluation write-up
Football Beyond Borders: Economic value of FBB impact on children’s wellbeing
Example evaluation report looking at value for money and impact.
PHIRST: A process evaluation of the development and early implementation of a complex strategy to reduce serious youth violence in Lambeth
Example report highlighting process evaluation. There was also a conference poster summarising the report’s findings.
Research and evidence resources
NHS Evidence toolkit
A comprehensive guide to using evidence created for the NHS, full of tools and advice. The majority of the content is relevant for anyone undertaking evaluation outside of the NHS setting. It also works hand in hand with the NHS Evaluation toolkit (see above). This was created by:
- NHS Bristol
- North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (BNSSG ICB)
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West)
- Health Innovation West of England.
Online training and events
NIHR RSS training webinars
Online webinars from the NIHR’s Research Support Service. They cover different aspects of research and evaluation.
NCRM online tutorials
Over 100 free online tutorials from the National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM). They cover a range of topics relating to research and evaluation.
National Centre for Social Research events
Free webinars from the National Centre for Social Research that look at their research and methodology. The page also shares courses the Centre offers (at a cost).
Pro-Bono Economics events
Free events run with an aim to tackle low wellbeing in the UK.