What kind of evaluation is typically conducted at the end of a program cycle?

The evaluation typically conducted at the end of a program cycle is known as summative evaluation. This type of evaluation focuses on assessing the outcomes and impacts of a program after its implementation. Summative evaluations are designed to determine the effectiveness of the program, whether it met its objectives, and provide insights into the overall success of the initiative.

At this stage, data is collected and analyzed to understand the results, which can include participant outcomes, achievement of program goals, and overall program efficacy. The findings from a summative evaluation are crucial for stakeholders, as they inform decision-making for future programming, budgeting, and policy development.

In contrast, other types of evaluations serve different purposes throughout the program cycle. Preliminary evaluations are used before implementation to provide insights into planning. Formative evaluations occur during the program's implementation to improve ongoing processes and adapt strategies as needed. Diagnostic evaluations aim to identify specific issues or problems within a program, typically at the beginning stages. Each type supports different phases of program development, but summative evaluation specifically addresses the final assessment stage of program performance.