Program Impact Lavon L. Bartel Kathleen A. Duesterberg Mary L. Peabody University of Vermont Burlington, Vermont Today's funding resources require specific and understandable evaluation methods to measure the impact of an extension program for a particular audience. Often the goals of a project can be measured by the number of participants involved and lessons learned. These measures are commonly used by traditional educational programs.
Extension focuses on behavioral change as a desirable outcome of education.
Government funded programs must succinctly state how they have made a difference in client behavior that goes beyond knowledge or attitudinal changes. To be accountable and test new methods of evaluation, the Women's Agricultural Network uses an eclectic, yet highly planned, approach to monitoring program impact. The approach clearly identifies the program objectives, indicators of effectiveness, and targeted goals for a period of five years. The Network will provide education on economically feasible and environmentally sound management practices that encourage sustainable agriculture and lead to increased productivity and profitability. The Network will provide specific audiences with intensive education in business management in order to improve overall productivity.