HCBS Measurement Education/Training

Overview to the HCBS Measurement Education Modules: This series of educational modules is designed to provide a basic understanding of measurement principles, particularly, within the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) context. The modules provide education on topics, such as the purpose of measurement, data and uses, sampling, and psychometrics. Each module addresses measurement topics from the perspective of HCBS and includes short videos from experts in the measurement and HCBS fields.

Module #1: Introduction to Measurement: What is Measurement?: This module introduces the concept of measurement, including both the importance of high-quality measurement in HCBS and some of the challenges experienced in the field. The module will explore definitions related to measurement and provide examples of data and measurement issues as related to HCBS. Learners will also be introduced to the potential benefits of measurement in this context.

Module #2: Purposes of Measurement: The second module extends the discussion of measurement to introduce the purpose of measurement. The purpose and value of measurement are explored both within the HCBS field and compared to measurement in other fields. The module will also promote an understanding of key concepts in HCBS measurement, such as the differences between cross-sectional and longitudinal measurement. Different levels of measurement in HCBS will also be discussed.

Module #3: What Do You Really Want to Know? The Importance of Guiding Questions: This module highlights the importance of understanding and defining the topic or outcome you want to measure. In addition, the module proposes that careful development and use of guiding questions is essential to ensuring your measurement effort remains focused on obtaining the information you are seeking. A process is recommended for developing guiding questions and for checking whether your measurement effort has been successful.

Module #4: Measurement and HCBS Outcomes: This module defines what HCBS outcomes are and emphasizes the importance of measuring them. The module explores the types of HCBS outcomes that might be assessed at the system, provider, and individual levels. The module will also provide an overview of different types of outcomes, including recipient-reported outcomes and discusses a measurement framework by the National Quality Forum NQF) and its further expansion in the work of the RTC/OM.

Module 5a: Introduction to Sampling: This module introduces the concept of sampling in measurement and factors to consider when developing a sample. The module will help the learner understand the difference between a population, target population, and a sample. In addition, the module explains why it is important for a sample to be representative and how this is related to the ability to generalize findings to the whole population.

Module 5b: Sampling Methods and Recruitment: In this module, the topic of sampling continues, including additional discussion of recruitment and development of the sample. The module helps the learner to understand the differences between probability and non-probability sampling techniques and the various forms of each technique. Finally, important considerations when recruiting participants for a sample are discussed.