A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFFICACY OF THREE PROGRAM-EVALUATION MODELS –A REVIEW ON THEIR IMPLICATION IN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

Purpose of the study: This article reviews the comparative efficacy, theoretical and practical background of three program evaluation models (Stufflebeam’s CIPP model, Kirkpatrick’s model, and outcome-based evaluation models) and their implications in educational programs. The article discusses the strengths and limitations of the three evaluation models. Methodology: Peer-reviewed and scholarly journals were searched for articles related to program evaluation models and their importance. Keywords included program evaluation’, ‘assessment’, ‘CIPP model’, ‘evaluation of educational programs, ‘outcome-based model, and ‘planning’. Articles on Stufflebeam’s CIPP model, Kirkpatrick’s model, and outcome-based evaluation models were particularlyfocused because the review aimed at analysing these three models. The strengths and inadequacies of the three models were weighed and presented. Main Findings: The three models –outcome-based evaluation model, the Kirkpatric model, and the CIPP evaluation model –discussed in this review, have some strengths and weaknesses. Among the compared models, the CIPP model seems more appropriate for its implantation in evaluating educational programs because it is broader, comprehensive, flexible, cost-effective, and feasible. Applications of this study: Like other programs and projects, evaluation of educational programs is necessary to achieve high standards, better outcomes, and meet the objectives. Evaluation is employed before designing a particular educational program or during the already designed program. This review concludes that among different evaluation models, the CIPP evaluation model is more appropriate in evaluating educational programs because it is more comprehensive, efficient, and feasible.Employment of the CIPP model for evaluating educational programs can achieve plausible results about the overall progress of the educational programs. Novelty/Originality of this study: This review highlights the importance of different program evaluation models. It concludes that the CIPP evaluation model offers an excellent mechanism to evaluate educational programs at different stages.