1. Program Evaluation: An Extension Specialist’s Perspective Joseph E. Morris Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management Iowa State University

2. Where does aquaculture fit?

3. Statement of Issue Can be difficult to describe

4. Performance Goals Basic vs detailed aquaculture information –Different audiences

5. Key Program Components Workshops –Varied audiences Publications What is available from other states/regions? Prioritize What form best fit client needs?

6. Outcome Indicators Output indicators –Numbers –Easiest to measure

7. Outcome Indicators Difficult to assess –Number of culturists? Relationship to extension programming –Number advised not to pursue aquaculture –Impacts????

8. Internal and External Partners Internal –Other departments External –Natural resource agencies –State Department of Ag –Aquaculturists

9. Targeted Audiences New vs established culturists –Different expectations

10. Allocated Resources Public funds are often limited Client costs Grants

11. Additional Observations University standard evaluation forms –Viewed with limited enthusiasm by audiences, county and state extension Evaluation of workshops often an afterthought Many extension specialists are aware of the increasing need for program evaluation but are often frustrated with the process

12. Conclusions Better education of extension specialists in outcome assessment Split extension appointments complicate the evaluation Paperwork overload