Date of Award

Winter 9-15-2024

Document Type

Dissertation - University of Massachusetts Global access only

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Carlos V. Guzman, Ph.D

Second Advisor

Eric Rabitoy, Ed.D

Third Advisor

Carol Riley, Ed.D

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this Q methodology study was to identify specific factors that nonprofit practitioners in youth-serving organizations consider are most important in the implementation of outcome measurement requirements. Methodology: This Q Methodology study identified 20 participants employed by Boys & Girls Clubs organizations across six different cities in the Coachella Valley in Riverside County to explore the factors perceived to influence the adoption of outcome measurement practices. Respondents were selected using purposive and chain referral sampling based on specific criteria. The researcher collected data by conducting Q-sorts and analyzed the data using factor analysis. Salient factors that emerged were complemented by open-ended questions. Findings: Examination of the data from this Q methodology study collected from 20 participants indicated three salient factors including the following: (1) nine participants loaded onto the factor Individual First and believe that individual staff knowledge and access to evaluation information is the most important element in implementing outcome measurement practices, (2) five participants loaded onto the factor Organization First and believe organizational effectiveness and structures are the most important element in implementing outcome measurement practices, and (3) four participants loaded onto the factor Funders First and believe that meeting funding requirements is the most important element in implementing outcome measurement practices. vi Conclusions: Organizations adopting outcome measurement practices need to provide staff training to be more likely to successfully implement outcome measurement practices. Organizations also need to provide clear communication from leaders to create a culture of learning that positively affects the successful implementation of outcome measurement practices. Lastly, organizations that prioritize and understand the importance of successfully meeting funder requirements are more likely to successfully implement outcome measurement practices. Recommendations: To bridge the gap in perspectives between leaders and program delivery staff, leaders in the field should serve Translators and Mediators. Leaders, as Translators, should aim to communicate funding requirements to staff in ways that are relevant to staff. Leaders, as Mediators, should manage the relationship between staff delivering programs and funders, as well as the resistance that varies based on the difference in staff and leadership perspectives.

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