Evaluation Research In Criminal Justice

Evaluation Research

Evaluation research is the final step in which researchers ask questions about the effectiveness of policies and “is intended to supply scientifically valid information with which to guide public policy” (Hagan, 2014, p. 286). There are eight steps in the evaluation research that is used in the field of criminal justice. Problem formulation is the most crucial stage of evaluation research in which the selection, identification and specification of the research topic that will be investigated. Design of instruments categorizes and operationalize the key components of the program to be evaluated. Research design is a means of controlling for inaccuracy through experimental and control groups. Data collection consists of gathering

These models assume that all the components of an organization or program are interconnected and comprised of various inputs and outputs. The types of evaluation research that stem from a system’s model include impact evaluation, process evaluation, and monitoring (Hagan, 2014, p. 292). Process evaluation establishes pivotal relationships between results and project inputs and activities while impact evaluation establishes pivotal relationships between outcomes and inputs, activities, and results of programs. Monitoring starts with looking at inputs and ends while looking at the activities that effect from those inputs.

The type of evaluation research that would be most appropriate for evaluating a criminal justice program in my community would be domestic violence and special victims. Domestic violence is the largest category of police calls in some cities. When police officers respond, they know the situation can be volatile for all parties involved. Special victim calls for service include investigating cases involving sexual assault, domestic abuse, or crimes against children or the elderly. Managerial

The textbook explained in detail the process of research, and the significance of research studies that are helpful in developing policies, practices, and programs in the field of criminal justice. After looking at Cumberland County Sheriffs Detective unit, I feel the need for research is even stronger. The variety of services that is provided by the unit are evaluated on a yearly basis to show the effectiveness of each program. I feel being evaluated on a yearly basis can address immediate policy concerns that may arise.

Based on my research with the Cumberland County Sheriffs Detective unit and the responses to from the informational interview questions, I don’t feel any changes are needed at this time regarding how the managers of the Detective unit use evaluation research.

Evaluation research is vital in the field of criminal justice. Research evaluation can show the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of programs. Evaluation research can show what methods of research that are practicable and could be utilized by the department when developing programs within the community. Statistical data once collected and verified can be presented to show significant findings through bar charts, graphs and