FASD Evaluation Mapping Project

FASD Evaluation Mapping Project
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This project aimed to strengthen the capacity of community-based organizations to do program evaluation.

In the FASD Evaluation Mapping Project (2011-2014), we created three visual “Maps” (evaluation frameworks) and compiled useful evaluation tools for prevention and support programs serving pregnant women and mothers, youth and adults living with FASD, and FASD programs in Indigenous communities.
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The maps provide a framework for thinking about outcomes, activities and approaches in three types of community-based programs:

1) FASD prevention programs
2) FASD support programs, and
3) FASD programs in Aboriginal communities. ‍‍

Getting started - Elements of the Evaluation Maps:

‍When getting started with program evaluation, we have found it helpful to start by looking at the “big picture." Elements of our frameworks or “Maps” include:

• programs’ theoretical foundations,
• program activities and approaches,
• program/formative outcomes,
• participant outcomes,
• community outcomes, and
• systemic outcomes.

At the centre are the people who are the focus of the community-based programs.

‍How to use the Evaluation Maps:

‍These maps are intended to help program staff, planners and funders to more easily identify the aspects of programs that contribute to positive client and community outcomes and the range of outcomes that can result from or be associated with certain approaches and program activities.

They also give us a common framework for thinking about how to conduct evaluations across programs or across communities. In some cases, the maps may make some previously invisible program activities visible — especially often underfunded activities such as transportation, client accompaniment to meetings, and provision of food.

The circular design of the maps is congruent with, and has been informed by, Indigenous wholistic frameworks of well-being that emphasize the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence, phases of the lifespan and future generations, as well as the importance of wholistic approaches to healing and understanding FASD.

Learn more about the FASD Evaluation Mapping Project!