George E. Higgins

Exploring the Influence of Race Relations and Public Safety Concerns on Public Support for Racial Profiling during Traffic Stops

The purpose of the present study was to explore hypotheses related to the influence of race relations and perceptions of safety on public opinion regarding racial profiling in traffic stops. Using a representative sample of the United States of America, our results indicate that views regarding race relations influenced public opinion on racial profiling in traffic stops, but perceptions of safety did not influence this view.

Planning a Program Evaluation

Planning must precede the construction of a program evaluation. This chapter outlines the process of planning a program evaluation, including problems that may be encountered with the program administrators and participants.

Theory-Driven Evaluation

The purpose of this chapter is to provide some perspective into theory-driven evaluations. It highlights and outlines why theory-driven evaluations are necessary. In addition, it provides a rational approach for uncovering and describing theory-driven evaluations.

5 – Process Evaluation

The purpose of the process evaluation is to monitor the implementation of the project and provide feedback to guide program operations. The acquired information can be used to maintain and strengthen program aspects that are effective and alter those revealed to be ineffective. The process evaluation features the use of qualitative research methods, in particular, the use of observation and interviewing of both individuals and groups.

6 – Outcome Evaluation

The purpose of the outcome evaluation is to evaluate the impact of the program and determine the extent to which it achieved its goals. The research results can be used to guide policy makers’ decision on whether to maintain, expand, or terminate the program. The outcome evaluation features the use of quantitative research methods and several types of research designs. The program evaluator must be aware of the strengths and limitations of each type of design and select the one that is both feasible and methodologically sound.

Measurement and Data Analysis

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a clear understanding of how to work through the conceptualization process. In the context of an evaluation, the different types of concepts to measure are presented. The chapter then shifts into a presentation of statistical tools that may be used in the analysis of data.

Getting Started with Program Evaluation

The purpose of program evaluation is to assess the effectiveness of criminal justice policies and programs. The ability of the research to meet these aims is related to the design of the program, its methodology, and the relationship between the administrator and evaluator. The process assumes rationality—that all individuals involved seek practices that are confirmed by research results. Efforts such as the “Maryland Report,” a study of criminal justice interventions, and the Campbell Collaboration (Crime and Justice Group) represent major attempts to upgrade the quality of criminal justice program evaluation and their ability to inform policy.

Cost-Efficiency Evaluation

The purpose of cost-efficiency evaluations is to make the connection between cost and outcomes. Using methods like cost-benefit analysis and cost-effective analysis, this allows evaluators to provide the most complete information. The information may be used to make better decisions about implementation or continuing a program.

Needs Assessment Evaluation

Needs are important to plan the proper program. Needs do not usually cover the desires of individuals, but the things necessary to bring them to a satisfactory state. Needs are not well understood and are often complex. The lack of understanding and complexity means that a large amount of information is needed. Through the use of focus groups, surveys, and social indicators, needs become clearer. From this clarity, planning a program may begin with certainty and confidence.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action in Evaluation Research

In this chapter, we review, reaffirm, and reconstruct key points that we have made throughout the book. Our aim is to reinforce crucial concepts and operations that will help evaluation research guide criminal justice programs and policy in the future to be more effective.