masthead

I-Guide Standards of Evidence

To ensure that the information and guidance included in the I-Guides meet a minimum standard of evidence, all research is categorized into the following four levels:


  • 4 stars equals compelling evidenceCompelling Evidence:

    The evidence is based on evaluations featured on the MPG. Recommendations and information are based on evidence from program evaluations reviewed and rated for the MPG (programs rated either “effective,” “promising,” or “no effects”).


  • 3 stars equals reasonable evidenceReasonable Evidence:

    Evidence based on evaluations not featured on the MPG. Recommendations and information are based on program evaluations that meet the minimum standards to be reviewed for the MPG.1 However, the program evaluations either

    1. were reviewed but rejected from the MPG (studies rated “insufficient evidence”) or
    2. have not been through the full review process yet.

  • 2 stars equals minimum related evidenceMinimum Related Evidence:

    The evidence is based on research related to topics on the MPG. Recommendations and information are based on research that does not meet the minimum standards to be reviewed for the MPG. This research includes case studies, non-evaluative government reports, process evaluations, systematic reviews, and correlational research. And, the research is related to topic areas included on the MPG (e.g., delinquency prevention, children exposed to violence, schools) and comes from credible sources (e.g., peer-reviewed journals, research organizations, universities, and government agencies).


  • 1 stars equals minimum evidenceMinimum Evidence:

    The evidence is based on research not related to topics on the MPG. Recommendations and information are based on research that does not meet the minimum standards to be reviewed for the MPG. This research includes case studies, non-evaluative government reports, process evaluations, systematic reviews, and correlational research. But, the research is related to topic areas not included on the MPG. Nevertheless, it comes from credible sources (e.g., peer-reviewed journals, research organizations, universities, and government agencies).

double arrow: expand all reference sections

  • I-Guide Category Reference

    Start:
    These components relate to building a solid foundation before implementing an evidence-based intervention.
    Support:
    These components assist with putting a program or practice into place.
    Secure:
    These components relate to stabilizing and sustaining the program or practice within the community or jurisdiction.

    close section

  • Learn More

    close section

1Minimum standards for review: The program must be evaluated with at least one randomized field experiment or a quasi-experimental research design (with a comparison condition); the outcomes assessed must relate to crime, delinquency, or victimization prevention, intervention, or response; the evaluation(s) must be published in a peer-reviewed publication or documented in a comprehensive evaluation report; and the year of publication must be 1980 or after.