National Forum on Early Childhood Program Evaluation
This new collaborative project involving Northwestern University, Georgetown University, University of Wisconsin, and University of Nebraska, housed at the Center on the Developing Child and Harvard University, will broaden the Council’s work by including the analysis, synthesis, translation, and dissemination of findings from program evaluation studies to learn more about what early childhood interventions work best and for whom. The addition of program evaluation research to the Council’s portfolio of neuroscience, developmental psychology, and economics will generate unparalleled capacity to advance public understanding of the investment potential of the early childhood years.
The work plan for the Forum consists primarily of the analysis and communication of sophisticated program evaluation data in clear language and in a timely fashion. It includes:
- rigorous analyses of the findings of well-designed studies of programs delivered between the prenatal period and age 5 years to improve outcomes for children and/or provide effective support for their families
- workshops involving key program evaluators and policy analysts representing a range of political perspectives to discuss the significance and implications of study findings
- a variety of communications products, including issue briefs for policymakers and civic leaders, as well as peer-reviewed scientific papers and electronic communications assuring both broad-based and targeted dissemination of high quality information on a regular basis
- an annual symposium that integrates evaluation research with cutting-edge knowledge in neurobiology, the behavioral and social sciences, and economics to inform early childhood care, education, and intervention
