Evaluating the implementation and quality of an extension initiative: The case of Sambalaran Camp Project

Abstract

With the implementation of extension projects by higher education institutions, particularly by state universities and colleges, it is imperative that they undergo the continuous and relevant phases of monitoring and evaluation. Hence, feedbacks that can be obtained from the project’s beneficiaries are deemed necessary to improve and inform the whole process of conducting any extension activity. Considering the role of feedback mechanisms, this study sought to evaluate the implementation and quality of the Sambalaran Camp Project, which was carried out by the extension office of Bulacan State University – Meneses Campus in Bulacan Province, Philippines in its partner and adopted communities in the towns of Bulakan and Guiguinto last 2017 and 2018. Results show that most of the 154 beneficiaries reported a strong level of agreement towards the implementation of the project. They also reported positive ratings, ranging from very good and excellent, in assessing the project’s quality. Open-ended qualitative responses revealed that they were interested in opening small business after gaining new knowledge and skills. T-test analysis revealed that the first batch (2017) of beneficiaries reported higher both level of agreement and positive rating than the second batch (2018), reflecting the latter’s observations concerning the lack of required training materials and allotment of minimal amount of time for a skills training activity.