When conducting a program evaluation, what outcomes measure the intended effects of the program or intervention?

Proximal outcomes focus on measuring the short-term effects that indicate immediate changes resulting from an intervention or program. These outcomes reflect changes in knowledge, attitudes, skills, and behaviors that can be observed shortly after the implementation of a program. Evaluating proximal outcomes allows counselors and program evaluators to assess whether the immediate objectives of a program are being met and whether participants are on track toward achieving the longer-term goals.

Proximal outcomes are critical for understanding the effectiveness of a program in its early stages, as they provide valuable information on the program's impact before evaluating more distant influences. This approach helps in making necessary adjustments during program delivery to optimize overall effectiveness. Collectively, these outcomes inform stakeholders about the immediate success of the program and guide future planning.

In contrast, other types of outcomes, like distal or long-term outcomes, typically measure effects that take more time to manifest or may result from cumulative changes over extended periods, while individual outcomes tend to focus on the specific achievements of a single participant rather than the overarching goals of a program. Thus, proximal outcomes are essential for a comprehensive evaluation of program effectiveness in school counseling contexts.