Using a new program evaluation model to chart the outcomes of an educational intervention in residency training

The purpose of this article is to introduce a new outcome-oriented, utilization-focused, and practical approach to program evaluation: Charting the Outcomes of Educational and Clinical Approaches (COECA) model. It provides a framework that encourages stakeholders to consider academic dissemination, product development, and implementation as three primary outcomes when evaluating educational and clinical approaches. The model then identifies measurements of the impact of each of these primary outcomes. Finally, it outlines three secondary outcomes that focus on education, clinical service, and administration. As an example, this article discusses the application of the model to an educational intervention in residency training. This intervention has been implemented at two sites. Secondary outcomes include increased competency of residents and a change in responsibilities among health care team members. The COECA model provides an easy-to-apply and efficient method for documenting actual progress and determining potential for further development.