Research / Evaluation

SWOVA is founded on a commitment to research as an essential tool in the development and continuing improvement of our violence prevention programs and initiatives.

Evaluation research has been integral to the development of the R+R program since the beginning. It has a firm foundation in lessons learned from the research done in this field around the world. Starting with the earliest pilot test of our preliminary model in 1997-8, the process of implementation and the effects of the program on students and their schools have been evaluated every year.

On-going evaluation of the R+R program has provided:

Over a decade of systematic research and development

Professional program assessment, analysis, insight and feedback

Detailed information on "what works" with students aged 12-18

Guidelines for a curriculum that engages, challenges and changes students

Perspectives on how to reach both boys and girls on the issues

An avenue for the insights of teachers and educators to help shape the program

Outcome measures that show we are making a difference

A high standard of excellence for all of our work

 

Pass It On Workshop Evaluation Summary

Workshops: Giving Adolescent Girls a Space To Be
-please click on the link to download the full report

During the fall of 2008, adolescent girls on Salt Spring Island had the opportunity to participate in workshops that focused on issues identified by them as important. This report highlights the feedback that girls provided about their experiences of the workshops and for a small number of girls, the experience of being part of a youth advisory team that assisted in carrying out the workshops.

The feedback from the four workshops clearly draws attention to adolescent girls’ longing for a space to discuss important issues in an open and respectful way. One key theme that came out of feedback from the girls was the value attributed to being given a space to connect with one another and learn from one another. Further, the girls realized that they are not alone in their concerns and struggles as they grow into competent young women. They want to speak their truth and these workshops allowed them to experience a safe environment in which they could take their individual risks in this regard. In the end, they reported that they felt highly challenged at times but that these challenges lead to the development of greater authenticity.

Through each of the four workshops, the girls reported learning things that could help them in daily life. Additionally, they reported intentions to use their new knowledge to make changes that would enhance their overall quality of life. Requests for further opportunities to engage in workshops and some requested longer, more intense workshops. Others felt that bringing adolescent boys into the dialogue would be highly meaningful and beneficial. The experience of these adolescent girls who attended these workshops highlights their motivation to pursue ways to further their positive development.

For a small number of girls involved in the Youth Advisory Team, their aspirations to take on more leadership roles were clear. They enjoyed being part of a team that assisted in bringing these successful workshops to life. They also reported great satisfaction in the connections that they made, and continue to make, with other girls on the team. The girls on the Youth Advisory Team were full of ideas and were inspired to continue with their roles on the team.

 

Respectful Relationships Youth Feedback 2008-2009
-please click on the link to download the full report

This report highlights the feedback gathered from 27 youth who participated in the R+R Youth Team during the 2008-9 school year.

 

 

E-mail Subscription

Enter your email address to subscribe to the SWOVA Blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.