What type of evaluation primarily focuses on the outcomes or results of a program?

The focus of summative evaluation is primarily on measuring the results or outcomes of a program after its implementation. This type of evaluation assesses the effectiveness and impact of the program by determining whether its goals and objectives have been met. It typically occurs at the end of a program or at significant milestones to provide an overall judgment of the program's success or efficacy.

Summative evaluation often involves the use of quantitative and qualitative data to gauge the changes brought about by the program. It aims to provide stakeholders, including funders and policymakers, with evidence that can inform decisions about future initiatives, program improvements, or the continuation of the program. In contrast, formative evaluation is conducted during the development and implementation phases, focusing on the program’s design and processes rather than its final outcomes. Process evaluation looks specifically at how a program is being implemented and the context in which it operates, rather than the final results. Program evaluation is a broader term that encompasses both formative and summative evaluations but does not specifically refer to outcome assessments alone.