An evaluation of an enrichment program using naturalistic research methods : some implications for the methodology

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the application of naturalistic research methods to the evaluation of an enrichment program for gifted learners. This was the first program of its kind in the Province of Newfoundland, and no previous evaluation attempts had been made. An evaluation scheme was developed specifically for the enrichment program. This scheme or model was tested through implementation, and conclusions and recommendations regarding its utility were made. -- The literature points to an ever-increasing expansion of the use and application of naturalistic methods. Specifically, the literature suggests the importance of matching evaluation design with the nature of the program. Consequently an emergent evaluation design was selected to evaluate this program, since the program itself had long-term goals rather than more immediate achievement gains. -- The implementation of the evaluation scheme produced data that was both extensive and indepth. An extensive sample of the data is included in this study, to illustrate the type of information that can be generated through the use of naturalistic methods. -- A discussion of the appropriateness of naturalistic methods points out both the benefits and constraints of the methodology. Consideration is given to meeting the standards of an effective evaluation. -- Conclusions and recommendations have been made with regard to the appropriateness of the evaluation approach and its future applications.