How Will I Collect the Information?
Data collection is a major part of any evaluation. The answer depends on your purpose and the questions you want to answer. There are many ways to collect data. Consider which method is most culturally appropriate for your situation. Often a mix of methods provides more credible and useful findings.
 Collecting Data (28 slides, 1419 KB) - This PowerPoint provides an overview of the common sources of information in youth development programming and the variety of methods for collecting data that are available, both quantitative and qualitative methods. It provides things to think about was you consider which method to use and other issues in data collection such as instrument, timing of data collection and sampling. 
Culturally Appropriate Data Collection Methods (13 slides, 1083KB) - Evaluation is not culture-free. Review what to think about when considering popular data collection methods in order to be more culturally sensitive and respectful.  Collecting Evaluation Data (11 pages, 216 KB) - A practical overview of sources and data collection methods with explanations and examples.  Sources of Evaluation Information (1 page, 20 KB) - A summary one page Quick Tip that lists where to get the information you need, from UW-Extension Program Development and Evaluation.  Methods for Collecting Information (1page, 19 KB) - A summary one page Quick Tip that lists all the common methods for collection data, from UW-Extension Program Development and Evaluation.  Pros and Cons of Different Data Collection Methods (4 pages, 156 KB) - A popular chart that lists the purpose, advantages and disadvantages of 6 common data collection methods. Ways to make your evaluations more culturally sensitive (1 page, 54 KB) - This one page sheet lists 15 ways to help make your evaluations culturally respectful.
Sampling 
Sampling (16 slides, 1001 KB) - Do you need a sample? This PowerPoint covers the basics of sampling including types of samples, ways to sample, sample size and sampling bias.  Sampling (12 pages, 145 KB) - Supplement the PowerPoint slides with more explanation about sampling and sampling practices, from UW-Extension, Program Development and Evaluation. - What is sampling bias? (1 page, 33 KB) - A quick explanation of sampling bias and why we should care.
- Random Sample Generator - Use this external site to generate random numbers for drawing a random sample.
- Sample Size Calculator - This handy external site will help you determine your sample size for different levels of precision.
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