The Evaluation Program of NSF/REC evaluates NSF programs
of the Directorate for Education and Human Resource’s on a regular
basis. REC manages evaluation grants and contracts, and performs training
activities designed to assist the EHR Directorate and others in understanding
and improving their evaluations. REC is also responsible for the administration
and monitoring of the EHR impact database and interagency collaborations.
provides subject
matter expertise to REC and performed the following:
· Providing subject matter experts
· Developing and maintaining an information tracking system
· Resource and content management and dissemination
· Technical assistance
· Scheduling forums and facilitation
· Technical writing including web and print publication
· Evaluating programs
· Data analysis
· Conference, workshop, and peer review.
· Document management
· Subject matter experts
· Technical assistance
· Logistical support.
Performance Measurement Model
reviewed States
Unemployment Insurance systems and records to determine the feasibility
and utility of using UI records for work measures.
provided a team of professionals who reviewed data elements to determine
how the data matches could be accomplished, the extent of differences
in coverage among States, the extent to which each of the State jobs
were factors, compared actual outcomes for various measures across States,
and recommended methods for adjusting the data to accommodate differences
in coverage.
Evaluated the Implementation of Voice
Response Units
provided a comprehensive
study of Voice Response Unit functions, and analyzed changes in the
level and quality of services when VRU systems were introduced. The
National Office used the Information from this study to review options
for policy and funding decisions.
Benefits of Quality Control Pilot Study
provided model
design assessment, database-programming support, development of time
and cost data instruments, curriculum development, and delivery of statistical
analysis and evaluation of five pilot states.
Model for Resource Justification Study
developed a methodology
that assessed UI administrative resource requirements. The Team conducted
studies and provided comparative analysis of three State programs. We
developed a framework for linking performance to budget (GPRA), researched
best practices and designed a prototype computer model. The model reflected
the resources used by each State, forecasted State perspective of needs,
and generated a platform for requesting resource enhancements supported
by a business case or cost-benefit analysis tied to performance.
Professional Development & Training
designed a custom,
professionally directed, interactive workshop for the Changing Workforce
Program. conducted training on
“Creating and Adapting to Change in the Workplace” for the
Atlanta, Georgia Office. The program was highly rated by attendees and
recommended to the entire office.
Professional Development and Training
developed a Users
Manual and delivered a workshop entitled “Making A Difference”:
a workshop for Project Managers. The project involved PM training at
8 locations around the country.
staff provided subject matter experts, trainees, and all logistical
support for the successful delivery of this project.
Monitoring and Implementation Training
Data Validation Methodology
delivered an effective
reference-based training program that introduced users to the methodology
used to validate benefits and tax data.
also developed and delivered training and technical assistance on the
state-specific handbooks as part of the pilot test.
assessed the new UI data validation methodology for usability, cost
effectiveness, and capability for nationwide implementation.
Handbooks for Unemployment Insurance Data Validation
Methodology
delivered
three major objectives of the task:
Enhanced the “Train the Trainer” program by developing
an effective package for training regional office staff in preparation
for nationwide implementation.
Researched and recommended approaches to updating and maintaining
Data Validation Handbooks
Refined and tested the spreadsheet software used and modified by pilot
states.
