Evaluating Ministry Effectiveness

About This Course

Too many organizations operate without a streamlined and consistent evaluation process. This course provides an overview of the basic procedures for effective evaluation of camp programs. After establishing the importance of evaluation, this course will explain to students the 6 steps of evaluation- from designing an evaluative instrument to analyzing the data. Worksheets and discussion board interactions are provided during the coursework for students to integrate principles into their own settings and/or develop and refine evaluation tools.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Explore the importance of evaluation

Discuss the ways evaluation can enhance ministries

Identify a ministry target

Write effective questions

Design measurement instruments

Collect data

Analyze qualitative and quantitative data

Develop and implement an annual evaluation cycle

Communicate significant results to constituents for use in marketing, recruitment and fundraising

Course Staff

Rob Ribbe

Greetings from the Northwoods! As the Director of HoneyRock, Outdoor Center for Leadership Development, for 25+ years I’ve witnessed the transformative difference good evaluation processes can make. We’ve used the methods in this course to facilitate change, rebuild programs, strengthen our team, and gain clarity about who we are and what we do. When I’m not at work, you can find me biking down Highway X, enjoying time with my family, and taking in the beauty of the Northwoods from my wooden canoe. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions – we’re excited to hear how you implement the ideas and steps from this course in your organization.

Rachael Botting

Growing up, summer camp wasn’t really on my radar. During college, I found my way to HoneyRock and haven’t looked back! For the past five years, my work has revolved around internal evaluation, research/consulting, and weaving the already powerful camp experiences into college-level coursework for our staff and students. I’m currently pursuing my PhD in Educational Studies at Biola University. Outside of work and school, you can find me shredding the slopes of Mount Bohemia, spending time with my husband, and planning next year’s garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is this course? You will pay a one-time, up-front fee of $75. All readings, worksheets, and tools are included (no extra purchases necessary). How long will I have access to the content? As long as you need access, you’ll have it! Will I be taking it with other people? While some courses are designed to be taken as a group, this course is designed to be “go at your own pace”. What if I have a question about the content? Post your question in the “comments” section– we’ll be monitoring this space regularly. I want my staff team to take this course – do you have a group discount? Yes!

If you should need assistance with this website or have questions about this course, please email: honey.rock@wheaton.edu we’ll work with you to determine how to best serve the needs of your team. What if I’m not satisfied with the content? Let us know at honey.rock@wheaton.edu After you complete a survey, we will refund your payment in full.

What web browser should I use?

The WheatonX platform works best with current versions of Chrome, Firefox or Safari, or with Internet Explorer version 9 and above.

See our list of supported browsers for the most up-to-date information.