Benchmark - Preparing Evaluation Findings

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS Benchmark — Preparing Evaluation Findings Eric Menefee December 7, 2022 ADM-640 Grand Canyon University Casmir Bilong C1l

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C3 The Purpose and Scope Program When evaluating a program; you have to make sure that you have all the key components, and research tools to make sure you have all the best possible resources to come up with an accurate results — that won’t be biased and will give an best observation to individuals or groups who are interested in the evaluation of that program. According to research from B. R. Worthen (1990); The majority of program evaluators concur that program evaluation can have either a summative or a formative function to help to improve the program, and decide whether a the program should be continued. One of the programs I thought would be a good program to evaluate; is the Social Security program — that is being runned by the Social Security Administration within the United States of America Federal Government. I thought this would be a great program to evaluate because it has been very controversial for so many years, and there has been many questions on the legitimacy of if the Social Security program actually helps those who have put so much money in over the years and if they will get the that same or more back when they eventually retire. The Social Security Administration started its roots on August 14, 1935 when then United States of America president Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act of 1935 as part of Franklin’s New Deal Campaign, and the main goal of the program — was to provide safe insurance to retired and injured workers, and the disability. According to Patricia P. Martin and David A. Weaver (2005); The Social Security Act of 1935 provided for unemployment insurance, old-age insurance, and means-tested insurance. A researchable question that would be great for evaluation would be; is the program really benefiting many Americans as the program was intended to, or is our federal government

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS c4 misusing most of the money for different programs. I feel like that question is very important because many Americans who work — have to pay in the social security program, but most never see that money in their lifetime and it brings up so many questions as to where the money is really going. Reasons for Evaluation There are plenty of reasons why the Social Security program needs to be evaluated on so many levels, but the main purpose of the evaluation — is to see if the funds are actually be saved and going to it’s attended target, and to see if they are being misdirected to other programs by the federal government. There has been research that has said that the money in the social security vault will run out in a couple years, and many individuals who have put in money to the social security program — won’t be able to see any of that money when they reach the legal age to be able to take it out. According to Denis Bunis (2022) of the AARP; the combined trust funds might run out of money by 2035, according to the Social Security Trustees, one year later than they anticipated in their 2021 report. After then, advantages from incoming money may theoretically be paid for by the combined trust funds to the tune of around 80%. From the Social Security Trustees report for 2021; there are obvious signs of misappropriation of funds for in the social security vault, and money that was meant for disable and injured workers will run out faster than most researchers predicted. If the money that was promised and meant for these injured and disabled workers run out in the upcoming years; then it won’t be long before the retirement—insurance part in the social security programs starts to run out, and then it will leave the United States with so many disadvantage retired individuals — that will have to find part- time jobs to continue to support the income to survive.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C5 Relevant Stakeholders The relevant stakeholders for this program; is our elected congressmen, senators, and the United States president — they hold the power and key to either fixing the Social Security program or wiping it off the face of existence and starting over with a fresher program that will benefit every American in this country. The problem with wiping out the social security program; is that so many individuals have already contributed so much money into the program, so if the program is completely done away — then all that money that was put in would be a major loss for those individuals, so the Social Security program must be fixed and not depleted. The major question that should be asked to all of our elected officials is; the social security trust must be protected at all cost, and the funds shouldn’t be directed to any other program. There still might be time to fix the program, but it’s going to take a bi-partisian effort to put more funds in the program, and to safely guard every American's future, so they can retire in peace.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C6 The Research Method Evaluation When thinking and choosing the right evaluation questions for such a meaningful research study; one has to dig dip and find out the reason the program needs evaluation because there is always some meaningful reason on why there should be evaluation to such a program, and those reason needs to be justifiable when evaluating the program, and whenever there is an conclusion to that elevation — it must be a reasonable and knowledgeable finding. According to Henk F. Moed (2009); Citation analysis entails the creation and use of a number of indicators of the “impact”, “influence”, and “quality” of scholarly work that are derived from citation data, or information on the references listed in the footnotes or bibliographies of scholarly research publications. Using the correct scholar findings to do a program evaluation is very important to a research because it creates an honest and integrity base for your findings, and there will be most public backing to that program elevation. The question that was most important for this program evaluation was; if everybody that works is paying into the social security program — why are most funds misdirected into other federal government programs, and why is the social security trust losing money at a rapid pace. The Social Security program was meant to safeguard many Americans — who were retired or have a disability that prevents them from working, but there has been many controversial problems caused by our federal government; that is preventing most hard-working Americans from getting hold to their insurance money that they paid so much over the years, and bringing them close to either working into their old ages or homelessness because they have no income to support their final days.

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C7 Data Collection When doing a program evaluation; the most important part of the elevation — is collecting the most important data because the data information is your first step into finding the reasoning and cause of why the program is being evaluated, and to figure out the appropriate steps that need to be taken to further assist the program evaluation. The process of gathering, quantifying, and interpreting precise insights for research using accepted, established methods is known as data gathering. An investigator can assess their hypotheses using the data that they have gathered. No matter the subject of study, gathering data is typically the first and most crucial phase in the research process. Depending on the type of data needed, various disciplines research requires different approaches to data gathering. The best way to collect data in these days is through the World Wide Web (WWW); and the WWW is best source for data collection because there is so much information available at the tip of your fingers, and there are trusted scholar findings included in the WWW because of trusted sources that have been back by many universities and professional research. According to research from Michael H. Birnbaum (2004); Methodological issues plague web research, such as greater rates of drop out and recurrent participation. Before going live, web research must be extensively evaluated and tested. Many researchers compared data collected via the web to data obtained in the lab. However, there are considerable disparities between college students examined in the lab and persons recruited and assessed over the internet. The reasons why Web researchers are excited about the possibility of new approaches are highlighted. The Internet has so much reliable information and data available to use 24/7, but to collect the most reliable data — one must make sure they are using the appropriate scholar articles because there is also misinformation available online, and that can falter one's hard-work on their program evaluation.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C8 Reporting Procedures Reporting procedures is another important method to evaluating a program because it sets the tone for an elevation; due to the fact that many members of the board or corporation get together to report any crucial findings or misshapes within the program. Reporting Procedures are very simple and usually takes teamwork within the organization to figure out what the main source of the problem is coming from, and identifying ways to fix or change those problems so the organization can continue to prosper. Many companies and agencies use this type of evaluation because they usually have intelligent professionals assigned to report any breaches of the law, or anything that can do damage to the organization. According to findings from The United Nations (n.d.); Reporting Procedures are rules that are intended to provide States parties with guidance on the format and substance of their reports, ensuring that they are thorough and presented consistently. Reporting Procedures were made so that any information and reports are made super accurate, and there aren't any mistakes of misconception when it comes to the final evaluation. Quantitative Methods Program Elevations are very important when it comes to figuring out the problems or causes of why a program is doing poorly, or if there are things that need to be fixed within the program. When it comes to the most popular research methods in evaluating a program; the Quantitative method is one of the most commonly used research methods that is used when evaluating a program. According to research from Mike Allen (2017): Quantitative research aims

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C9 to produce new information and promote social world comprehension. Experts in information exchange, among other social scientists, employ quantitative research to investigate trends or events that have an impact on people. The examination of individuals is a focus for scientists. Finding out information about a specific demographic, sometimes referred to as a specimen, is possible through quantitative research. In order to answer questions about the sample population, quantitative research involves statistics that could be seen or quantified. Quantitative research requires some intense hard-work and effort because some evaluations require observing the situation at hand, and in most cases — surveying individuals and including numerical numbers to assist your findings in the evaluation. Quantitative research can also be difficult to most individuals because it requires mathematical and statistical input that most individuals would find difficult or not understand, so an evaluator would have to be well-known when it comes to numbers and calculating to understand this type of research method. Quantitative research also collects data from potential and existing participants and send out many polls and surveys to collect more data and information to assist their research — which can be very helpful when evaluating a program. Qualitative Methods The Quantitative Method is a very popular method to use in research, but the Qualitative Method is also a very common research practice when it comes to program evaluation. The Qualitative method is different from its counterpart; the Quantitative method because of the fact

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C10 it uses non-Numerical numbers to assist its research findings. According to research from Busetto et al. (2020); According to the definition of qualitative research, it is the “study of the characteristics of occurrences,” which includes “their quality, different manifestations, the circumstances in which they emerge or the viewpoints from which they can be interpreted,” but excludes “one’s spectrum, recurrence, or rather location in a platform sequence of action and reaction.” A somewhat more practical guideline might be added to this proper description: statistics for qualitative research is typically presented as a phrase instead of just statistics. Qualitative research is important to a program evaluator — if you don’t need to use any numerical methods in their research, and they are very good at observing information and data from engaging in individuals or non-Numerical objects. There are different types of Qualitative research that one can use when evaluating a program, and many of those types of methods can usually be the breakthrough for one’s research. The two most important Qualitative research methods that are important to use in a case observation; is the participant and direct observation method. Those two methods are very important because it puts you face-to-face with individuals who can give you more data information then a Numerical data could, and you will get a first hand experience on how to collect data and information for participants in such a study. The Best Method When doing a program evaluation; an individual has to look at all the best research methods that can better assist them in their research findings, and they have to be knowledgeable

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS Cl1 on which research method will come out with the best results for their evaluation. All the research methods discussed in this paper are great, but I believe the Quantitative research method is the better research method for a program evaluation. The Qualitative research method is a really excellent research method for a program evaluation, but when it comes to finding out the core source of anything — numerical and scientific facts will always be on top of anything else. According to research from Nilsen et al. (2013); Although qualitative research is frequently used In other sectors, it remains a small portion of healthcare. As evidenced by “research that includes examining the impacts of two techniques to accomplish improvement in patient treatment, ideally adopting prospective randomized trial methodological approaches, “ the other sector is more historically anchored in the scientific proof perspective. Even though qualitative research is still very popular among most researchers — quantitative research is the absolute best solution to get better results because there is so much science and study that goes into researching the program, and most of the time — it brings out very great outcomes. If an individual is going to evaluate a federal government program; they probably should use the quantitative research method because they would have to look at the numbers and figures of that program, and figure out why this program is in bad shape — that it needs to be evaluated. One can also use the qualitative research program when evaluating a federal government program, but due to the rapid political ideology that is happening today in the United States — it would take years just to get your final findings and nothing would probably change within the federal program that is being evaluated. If an evaluator were to present a mass group of individuals with non-biased findings

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C12 due to methods from the Quantitative research method — then there wouldn’t be any choice, but to question why the program is being handled the way it is and if it needs to be changed or disbanded. All the research methods that were mentioned are great choices for doing a program evaluation, but you have to choose the right one based on what program you are evaluating. The best method for my research evaluation; would have to be the Quantitative research method because my research requires looking at the data numbers and previous past spending in order to figure out why the Social Security funds are depleting at such a record speed.

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C13 The Communication Plan Importance of Communication When it comes to evaluating a program; the most important tool and resources that needs to be involved in the program evaluation — is the communication component of the program evaluation. Communication has always been the most important component to any topic or evaluation, and without communication being involved — then it is more likely that the evaluation will not be successful. The best objective when going into a program evaluation; is to have a communication plan, and stick to that communication plan throughout the program evaluation. The tactics that will be used to communicate the findings of your evaluation are documented in a communications management plan. The communication strategy must specify what outcomes will be shared, how they'll be shared, and with whom. It is very important to follow your communication management plan because that individual will get a better understanding on what's the cause of the situation, who is the target audience, and what actions need to be taken so the issue can be better handled. Target Audience When it comes to identifying the target audience; the individual in charge of running the program evaluation — needs to research and study the past target audience of the program that they are evaluating because those main targets are most likely still going to be the main contributions to the program. A communication message must be tailored to its listener's demands. The examiner will communicate with a variety of audiences who have various informational demands. When creating their statement, it must take these needs into account.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS Cl4 Entities, project personnel and managers, project team members or consumers, Civic groups, partnering organizations, as well as other people with a strong or perhaps even connected interest in program evaluation are the main target groups to organize for. According to research from Warner et al. (2022); It is crucial to understand that both current and prospective Extended clients are unique individuals who can be divided into smaller groups to enable more achieved results. Presumably, these small parties will have connections to the issue you are helping to overcome. The target audience for the Social Security program evaluation; would be every tax- paying citizen who is contributing to the Social Security program, and the elected Officials in congress and the senate who have the power to make the possible changes from the program evaluation to make progressive change. Delivering Program Report The other most important component when doing a program evaluation; is delivering the program evaluation report, and choosing the best possible method when delivering that report. A methodical strategy that considers the agency and program contexts throughout the whole planning phase. The execution of a program is centered on a number of initiatives that are in alignment with the strategic goals of an organization (Keck, Patel and Scolaro 2010). The best possible method when delivering a program evaluation report; would be in a form presentation — to the target audience and stakeholders within the program. When an individual is presented with an exclusive report or keynote address; the most common method is a form presentation because that form of method catches the audience or readers eye with quick and simple facts, and it is easier to read for most individuals. When it comes to communicating success and redirection; the best communication method would have to be through electronic mail (E-mail)

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C15 because electronic mail is the most professional method in sending important information and breaking news, and most American Citizens and political Officials have Emails that they check regularly every day. Management Plan The evaluation timetable would be; to have my studying and resources finished by December 3, 2022 — then have my policy memo completed by December 4, 2022, and then have the total Evaluation completed before December 12, 2022. The anticipated cost would be close to around $2 million dollars, and it would be around the range due to the cost of hiring researchers to help evaluate the program, and the cost it would take to completely overdue the social security program. The cost probably won’t be that high to $2 million, but you have to anticipate any faults or surprises when evaluating a program. The benchmarks that are expected for the evaluation; is the financial situation from when the program first started till the present day — which shows that the money in the social security program will most likely be depleted. The other benchmark would be to evaluate where most of the money in the social security program is going, and why it is running out so fast — when there are a lot of Citizens putting so much money into the program.

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RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C16 Policy Memo POLICY MEMORANDUM Date: December 07, 2022 From: Eric Menefee To: Social Security Stakeholders Summary There are many hard-working taxpayers that pay into the Social Security program with their wages because they expect to see the funds they paid into the Social Security program when they reach the designated age for them to be able to receive them. The Social Security program was created as a safeguard for many Americans who are retired, disabled, or have no ability to work any job, so many citizens rely on this program to protect their financial interests. It has come to myself and many other intentions; that the funds in the Social Security program will be depleted in the upcoming years — leaving many hard-working Americans with no future finances to protect them once they retire or become disable, and that is very troubling for the entire country. With the help of Quantitative research and the guidance of many professional researchers; we have come up with recommendations to rescue the Social Security program, and save many Americans from going into poverty.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C17 Recommendations: When looking at the data and numbers of where most of the Social Security funds are being spent or being “misplaced”; we have determined the United States Federal Government has been misdirecting those funds to other programs, and it is hurting taxpayers in many ways. The best recommendation for the Social Security program that we thought would be suitable; is to increase the percentage to 2% in each taxpayer's paycheck who wants to keep opting into the social security program, but also give the taxpayers the choice to opt-out of the program and choose to use a private retirement insurance program. The other recommendation we believe would be best for the taxpayers; is to lower the age that is required to withdraw their Social Security funds because the current age that is set at — is way pass the average American life- expectancy, and requires so many hard-working elderley to keep working way past their ability to work in the workforce. We hope the Social Security Stakeholders will look hard at these recommendations, and see that these recommendations will be a fitting start to reshaping the Social Security program.

RUNNING HEAD: EVALUATION FINDINGS C18 References: 1. Allen, M. (2017). The sage encyclopedia of communication research methods. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781483381411A. 2. Birnbaum MH. Human research and data collection via the internet. Annu Rev Psychol. 2004;55:803-32. doi: 10.1146/annurev.psych.55.090902.141601. PMID: 14744235. 3. Bunis, D. (2022, August 10). Social Security, Medicare Trust Funds Won’t Run Short as Early as Feared. AARP.https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-2022/social- security-medicare-report.html. 4. Busetto, L., Wick, W. & Gumbinger, C. How to use and assess qualitative research methods. Neurol. Res. Pract. 2, 14 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/542466-020-00059-z 5. _Keck, D., H. Patel, and A.J. Scolaro. 2010. Accelerating Transportation Project and Program Delivery: Conception to Completion. NCHRP Report 662, Washington, D.C: Transportation Research Board. 6. Martin, P. P., & Weaver, D. A. (2005, September 1). Social Security Administration. Social Security Administration Research, Statistics, and Policy Analysis. Retrieved November 2, 2022, from https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/ssb/v66n1/v66n1pl.html. 7. Moed, H. F. (2010).A Citation Analysis in Research Evaluation. Springer.A 8. Nilsen, P., Stahl, C., Roback, K. et al. Never the twain shall meet? - a comparison of implementation science and policy implementation research. Implementation Sci 8, 63 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-63. 9. United Nations. (n.d.).A United Nations Ethics Office. United Nations. Retrieved December 7, 2022, from https://www.un.org/en/ethics/index.shtmlA 10. Warner, L., Israel, G., & Diaz, J. (2022, November). IDENTIFYING AND MEETING THE NEEDS OF EXTENSION’S TARGET AUDIENCES. University of Florida. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/WC336 11. Worthen, B. (1990). Program evaluation. H. Walberg & G. Haertel (Eds.), The international encyclopedia of educational evaluation (pp. 42-47). Toronto, ON: Pergammon Press.

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