Multimethod strategy for assessing program fidelity: the national evaluation of the revised G.R.E.A.T. program

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Education

Background:

• The Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) program aims to prevent youth violence and gang involvement.
• Process evaluations are crucial for understanding program implementation and ensuring reliable outcome assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation fidelity of the G.R.E.A.T. program.
• To assess the consistency and quality of G.R.E.A.T. program delivery by trained officers.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a multi-method approach including observations of training sessions and program delivery.
• Conducted surveys and interviews with G.R.E.A.T.-trained officers, supervisors, and school personnel.
• Performed on-site observations of G.R.E.A.T. program implementation in study locations.

Main Results:

• The study found a high level of program fidelity across all assessed components.
• Consistent delivery of the G.R.E.A.T. curriculum was observed.
• Positive feedback was gathered from officers, supervisors, and school staff regarding program implementation.

Conclusions:

• The G.R.E.A.T. program is implemented with high fidelity, supporting the validity of outcome evaluation results.
• The robust process evaluation provides a strong foundation for interpreting the effectiveness of the G.R.E.A.T. program.
• High fidelity suggests that observed outcomes are likely attributable to the program itself.