Explore Evidence-Based Programs and Practices

Warm-up Activity 4.1

Begin by reading the APA Statement on Evidence-Based Practices. While this policy relates primarily to work done by clinicians, the principles can be applied to all programs and practices aimed to intervene in or prevent a problem in the broad area of mental health.

Warm-up Activity 4.2

The Oregon Addictions and Mental Health Department has developed criteria for evaluating research on interventions. Study their position paper and the accompanying chart in Operational Definition for Evidence-Based Practices.

Warm-up Activity 4.3

Carefully study the analysis and critique of the concept of evidence-based programs and practices in Tanenbaum, S. J. (2005).

Assignment

The warm-up activities focus on defining, refining, and analyzing the concept of evidence-based programs. Having read and reviewed these resources, prepare a presentation on evidence-based programs and practices. If your focus area is less related to intervention and programs, understanding these concepts and how to analyze them are still a key component to becoming a competent psychologist. Be sure to include the following:

A definition of evidence-based programs.

Appropriate questions and their elements used in choosing an evidence-based program.

An explanation of an evidence continuum that you consider valid.

Your own view of the pros and cons of the use of evidence-based programs.

A summary that evaluates the concept of evidence-based programs and how you propose to utilize this concept.

Your slides should include both the slide that you might present to an audience and the notes for each slide. The notes should be included in each slide (see your weekly resources on adding speaker notes to your PowerPoint) and these notes should be written in APA style. You do not need to include resources other than the ones identified in the assignment, but these resources should be listed on a reference page as the last slide in your presentation.

Length: 8-12 slides (with a separate reference slide)

Notes Length: 100-150 words for each slide

Create a professional presentation that incorporates appropriate animations, transitions, graphics, and speaker notes. The speaker notes may be comprised of brief paragraphs or bulleted lists. Be sure to add a reference slide or transition for all the references you use. Be sure to add your last name in the footer of each slide.

For a basic overview about how to create a PowerPoint presentation, view the PowerPoint Tutorial in the week’s resources.

Your PowerPoint presentation should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts that are presented in the course, and provide new thoughts and insights relating directly to this topic. Your writing should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards.