Overview
This course examines the systematic planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of programs designed to prevent and control sexually transmitted infections. Students engage with theory of change, logic models, intervention mapping, implementation science frameworks, stakeholder and community engagement, program readiness, fidelity, adaptation, scalability, sustainability, quality improvement, health equity, and evaluation ethics.
The course develops advanced competence in process, outcome, impact, economic, and mixed-methods evaluation. Topics include pre-post studies, quasi-experimental approaches, cohort evaluations, cluster designs, realist evaluation, qualitative inquiry, indicator development, data sources, measurement validity and reliability, routine monitoring systems, target setting, sampling, data-collection tools, implementation outcomes, cost considerations, and interpretation of findings for decision-making.
Practical work culminates in a complete STI program evaluation plan incorporating a logic model, evaluation questions, indicators, data-collection strategy, analysis approach, timeline, budget assumptions, risk register, and dissemination plan. Students communicate findings responsibly to funders, providers, policymakers, and affected communities.
Learning Outcomes
- Distinguish routine monitoring from program evaluation and implementation research.
- Construct theory-of-change diagrams and logic models for STI prevention and control programs.
- Select and justify quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, economic, and implementation evaluation designs.
- Develop valid, reliable, equity-sensitive indicators and appropriate data-collection instruments.
- Assess implementation barriers, facilitators, readiness, fidelity, adaptation, scalability, and sustainability.
- Design sampling, data-management, analysis, and quality-assurance procedures for program evaluation.
- Interpret quantitative and qualitative evidence while accounting for bias, uncertainty, context, and limitations.
- Integrate community perspectives and ethical principles into evaluation planning and dissemination.
- Recommend adaptive improvements based on implementation and evaluation findings.
- Synthesize a complete STI program evaluation plan, including timeline, budget assumptions, risk management, and dissemination strategies.
- Communicate evaluation findings clearly and responsibly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
| Practicum | 2 hours | Fortnightly | Second term |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Evaluation plan proposal | 10.00% |
| Assignment | Indicator and measurement brief | 15.00% |
| Assignment | Implementation analysis exercises (2 × 10%) | 20.00% |
| Capstone | Practical evaluation plan | 30.00% |
| Deliverable | Oral plan presentation | 10.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 15.00% |
Prerequisites
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
