research expertıse > Program Evaluation

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In our laboratory, we design and conduct rigorous evaluation studies to identify the most effective interventions and policies to improve people's lives. 

We identify the research questions concerning the program and the most appropriate evaluation design addressing those research questions. We value and follow scientific evaluation standards in our impact evaluation studies to ensure the findings are accurate and precise.

​We use quantitative and mixed methods to answer the following questions: 
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  • Which programs are the most effective to address the targeted outcomes? 
  • Is the program effective in achieving the desired results?
  • Do program effects vary across subgroups of individuals?
  • How does the program achieve its effect? Through which mechanisms? What are the successful components of the program? What components are counterproductive and should be revised or deleted?
  • ​If the program is not found to be effective, what were the obstacles? How can we address them?
  • Is the program well-implemented? What challenges and opportunities existed during the implementation phase? What were the barriers/facilitators to implementation of program activities?

​To read a summary of different types of evaluation (such as formative, process, outcome, and impact evaluations) (sosyal etki analizi) used to improve social programs and policies, click this link on
​Types and Uses of Evaluation. 

​Program Evaluation

Optimizing Interventions

Methodological Innovations

Advanced Data Analysis

​Systematic Reviews of Evidence
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Drug Prevention Program Evaluation: ​Unpacking the Mechanisms of Change
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​In this book chapter, we describe the use of a methodological tool (i.e. mediation analysis) to identify the causal mechanisms of prevention programs targeting drug use, smoking, and alcohol misuse. The chapter gives examples of evidence- based drug prevention interventions and describes how they achieved their effects. 
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​Raising Professional Capacity and Awareness on Autism: ​Impact Evaluation of a Large-Scale ​Teacher Training ​Program
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In this ongoing study, we assess the impact of an autism teacher training program being implemented in 11 cities across North-East Turkey. The study, funded by TANAP (Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline Project) and implemented by TOHUM Autism Foundation, aims to answer for whom the training works the best, and identify the mechanisms of change in order to achieve the most cost and outcome-effective version of the training program. ​
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Evaluating the Impact of a Learn to Code Program on Children's Cognitive Development

​Little is known about the impact of coding on children’s cognitive development. Using an experimental design, IEL assesses the impact of a 10-week coding program implemented by an education NGO (funded by Google.org). Outcomes such as spatial temporal reasoning, problem solving, and planning skills are being measured by developmental batteries and tasks. 
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Long-Term Outcomes of After-School Programs

​Using a matched comparison group evaluation design, we assessed the long-term (10-12 years after program entry) academic and psychological benefits of structured after-school programs implemented by the largest education NGO in Turkey. 
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