The CIPP Model of Evaluation

Previously, I shared about the Kirkpatrick Model and the Phillips ROI model to evaluate training. Both of these are excellent choices for your evaluation, but if neither of them meet your needs the CIPP Evaluation Model may work for you.

CIPP is an acronym for Context, Input, Process and Product. The CIPP Model is particularly useful as a decision-making model to aid decision makers in making training more effective. By spending time evaluating the context, inputs, processes, and the final product, one develops a more holistic picture. This helps trainers identify where they need to make improvements. 

In your library, going through an evaluation of a training program using CIPP may start with you gathering data on your stakeholders. What are their needs? What do they already know? What is the environment? Consider everything that is part of the context of the training program. 

Second, in the input stage, consider what resources are part of the training program. Resources can include the organization’s mission, budget, strategies, and human resources. 

Third, clearly identify the process that has gone into creating the training program. Ask, what feedback was received during the development of the training and who helped develop the training material. Then, each time the training is offered, obtain additional feedback and consistently monitor the implementation of the training to determine where improvements can be made. 

Fourth, determine if the goals for the session have been made. Ask if the training is sustainable. 

This evaluation process is cyclical and does not have to be performed in a specific order. Additionally, each evaluation stage can be performed more than once. You may want to go through each stage multiple times, or you may find that you need to evaluate the process through 3 or 4 training cycles while only evaluating the context once or twice. 

The following are suggested resources to learn more about the CIPP Model. 

Yale Pourvu Center for Teaching and Learning. (n.d.). CIPP Model. https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/CIPP

Stufflebeam, D. L. (2003). The CIPP model for evaluation. In International handbook of educational evaluation (pp. 31-62). Springer. 

Zhang, G., Zeller, N., Griffith, R., Metcalf, D., Williams, J., Shea, C. & Misulis, K. (2011). Using the context, input, process, and product evaluation model (CIPP) as a comprehensive framework to guide the planning, implementation, and assessment of service-learning programs. Journal of Higher Education and Outreach Engagement 15(4), 57 – 83.