Steps in conducting an evaluation
When it comes to speech language therapy assessment, there are multiple things that you should definitely consider to properly evaluate clients. Incorporating these ensures that you have better high-quality services and that you’re prioritizing the development goals and objectives of the client at all times.
Determine factors for evaluation
It’s important that you first establish the factors that you want to consider for evaluation. There’s a broad variety of aspects that can be implemented, however, each organization and speech-language practice is very different. You need to spend some time considering what is appropriate, and consider what is relevant to your clinic. For example, you may be interested in the reduction of the age of referrals, or the percentage of those fully trained practitioners in your clinic.
Map the services to be evaluated
Creating a map, or some sort of conceptual model, that explains all your processes and how your programs cohesively work together is a great idea to outline your business. You can more clearly understand the bigger picture, and how the small parts work together as a whole, as well as what needs to be researched in greater detail. You can consider a logical model that highlights cause and effect, such as the provision of training leading to higher levels of competence.
Identify methods to collect the data
Many evaluations are data-driven, and yours should be no exception. It’s important that you think about how exactly you want to go about collecting data, and there are a number of ways to do so. For instance, you could use qualitative and quantitative methodologies, and you could also approach small or large, specific or non-specific groups. Ideally, you tread the line between depth and breadth.
Collect the data
In terms of collecting the data, you could use basic management data with numbers that already exist, or gather new quantitative data from participant surveys. Conversely, you could also collect new qualitative data such as interviews or activities with stakeholders and participants. There’s really no straightforward way to do it, and whichever way you pick, you can extract valuable information.
Analysis of data
You’ll also need to analyze your data to produce rich insights that can be used within the operations of your practice and clinic. This can be as simple as producing tables and charts, as well as any descriptive statistics, or using sophisticated programs to observe significant changes or differences. For more qualitative details, you could compile reports with common themes, quotes, and examples.
Dissemination of your findings
Finally, you should also consider finalizing the information in an easily digestible and presentable format. This may include a presentation, tailored reports, or information and infographic sheets.
