40: Qualitative Matters: Strengthening Performance Measures with Participant-Centered Evaluation.

Federal agencies increasingly rely on external vendors to assess program effectiveness using quantitative performance measures. Traditional performance measurement frameworks prioritize objective, standardized metrics, while neglecting the qualitative dimensions that offer deeper context. Although quantitative data provides essential information, it fails to fully capture participants' lived experiences with federally funded programs, particularly in areas like sexual health education. Without integrating participant voices, national evaluations risk overlooking key insights that could enhance program design, delivery, and community engagement.

We propose that a blended evaluation model will strengthen the validity of program assessments, driving more informed decision-making and impactful improvements in federal programs. During our presentation, we will discuss how participatory approaches utilizing qualitative feedback are overlooked before, during, and after the data collection process, subsequently limiting meaningful insights that could radically change our approach.

Angela Mintah – Graduate Research Assistant, Human Development and Family Sciences, Auburn University; Adrienne Duke-Marks – Associate Professor, Human Development and Family Sciences, Auburn University; Sandra Anti Eyiah – Graduate Research Assistant, Human Development and Family Sciences, Auburn University; Brianna Goodwin – Graduate Research Assistant, Human Development and Family Sciences, Auburn University