The Use of Ripple Effect Mapping as an Evaluation Tool for Extension Programming

Ripple Effect Mapping (REM) is an emergent group participatory evaluation tool designed to identify the impacts, both intended as well as unintended, of programing such as that conducted by Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE). In this project the effectiveness of REM as an evaluation tool was examined using the Stone Soup Rural Workforce Training program (Stone Soup). Project objectives were to 1.) define the process and carry out a REM session for a VCE program, 2.) consider the capacity of REM to measure intended and unintended program outcomes and impacts as compared to the program logic model and as relates to the Community Capitols Framework (Emory & Flora, 2006), and 3.) identify other benefits and challenges associated with using REM as an evaluation method in VCE. Through the implementation of REM, both intentional and unintentional impacts of the Stone Soup program were identified. The REM process also served as a means to connect, re-energize and engage program participants. REM is an effective evaluation tool for obtaining qualitative data on complex Extension programs with multiple partners.