Program and Practice Effectiveness Toolkit

Evidence-based practice: Applying what we know in terms of research to what we do in our work with youth, their families, and the communities in which we live. It is the progressive, organizational use of direct, current scientific evidence to guide and inform efficient and effective services. It is through the use of research evidence and the demonstration of outcomes that Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system can achieve and confirm the effectiveness of its Balanced and Restorative Justice mission.

Evidence-based program: Refers to the use of research and scientific studies as a base for determining the best practices in a field. A rigorous evaluation typically involves either an experimental design (like that used in randomized controlled trials) or a quasi-experimental design. After the program is completed, the outcomes of these two groups are compared. This type of research design helps ensure that any observed differences in outcomes between the two groups are the result of the program and not other factors.

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Edward Latessa-Crimesolutions.gov: "What Works" in Criminal Justice- NIJ

Program and Practice Effectiveness Toolkit