Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

When your primary aim of evaluating a program is to provide information that can be used to improve it, you are using which type of evaluation?

1. Normative evaluation

2. Summative evaluation

3. Formative evaluation

4. Demonstrative evaluation

The correct answer is: Formative evaluation

The primary aim of evaluating a program to gather information that can be used for its improvement aligns with formative evaluation. This type of evaluation is conducted during the development or implementation phase of a program, with a focus on enhancing its effectiveness and efficiency. By providing real-time feedback, formative evaluation allows practitioners to make adjustments and modifications, ensuring that the program meets its intended goals and serves the needs of its target population. Formative evaluation involves ongoing assessments, such as monitoring processes, collecting data on participant experiences, and analyzing initial outcomes. This feedback loop is crucial in identifying strengths and areas for enhancement before the final assessment stage. As a result, it plays a vital role in shaping the program's development and operational strategies. In contrast, other types of evaluations, like summative evaluation, typically assess the impact or success of a program after its completion, making them less relevant for immediate improvement efforts.