The 2010 ASHS Annual Conference

Using the RE-AIM framework for process evaluation of research and extension projects

Cynthia Domenghini¹, Candice A. Shoemaker¹, Melissa Bopp², David A. Dzewaltowski²

¹Department of Horticulture, Forestry, and Recreation Resources, ²Department of Kinesiology, Kansas State University

The RE-AIM framework is an evaluation framework designed to improve the ability to generalize evidence-based intervention research into practice.  The five RE-AIM elements are Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance.  Reach is the absolute number, proportion, and representativeness of individuals who are willing to participate in a program (www.re-aim.org).  Effectiveness or Efficacy is the impact the intervention had, positive or negative, on the specified outcomes.  Adoption is the agents’ and settings’ decision to deliver a program.  Implementation is how closely the delivery staff follows the program protocol.  Maintenance refers to how and if the program continues beyond initiation as well as how individuals continue to meet program behavioral goals. Project PLANTS (Promoting Lifelong Activity and Nutrition Through Schools) is an overweight and obesity prevention program targeting children through after-school garden clubs.  This presentation will explain how Project PLANTS is utilizing RE-AIM to evaluate the translatability and public health impact of the intervention.