Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

When evaluating programs, which statement pertains to summative evaluation?

1. The primary aim is to provide information that can be used to improve a program.

2. Evaluation takes place at the end of the program.

3. Data are collected on a prospective basis.

4. Evaluation can occur during the program development phase.

The correct answer is: Evaluation takes place at the end of the program.

The statement indicating that evaluation takes place at the end of the program accurately reflects the purpose of summative evaluation. Summative evaluation is designed to assess the effectiveness and outcomes of a program after its completion, allowing stakeholders to determine whether the program met its objectives and to what extent it produced the desired results. This type of evaluation typically involves comprehensive data collection and analysis of the program’s impact, ultimately providing a judgment about the overall success or effectiveness of the program. The nature of summative evaluation distinguishes it from formative evaluation, which focuses on ongoing improvements and feedback during the implementation of a program. This contextual understanding underlines why the correct answer highlights the timing of the evaluation, placing it squarely at the conclusion of the program's activities.