Evaluations in Seattle

Evaluations in Seattle

1. From a sample of 150 pre- and post-use questionnaires taken over 15 months in Seattle in 1994-95, the number of kids using The Giraffe Heroes Program:

• who thought that “nothing could be done” to solve problems in their schools or communities dropped by 55%;

• who agreed that they should help solve such problems went up by 27%;

• who named sports or media celebrities as their “heroes” dropped by 50%, replaced by people they had met in the program who worked to solve problems in their communities.

2. A formal assessment of the program by a team from the University of Washington indicated in August 1996 that 90% of teachers returning surveys reported positive changes in the attitude and behavior of students taking The Giraffe Heroes Program. And 80% reported positive shifts in their own attitudes and behavior. These results track anecdotal feedback that both students and teachers gain confidence and competence from The Giraffe Heroes Program.


3. From a sample pf 86 pre- and post-use questionnaires taken over one semester in Guam in 1995, the number of kids using The Giraffe Heroes Program:

• who thought that “nothing could be done” to solve problems in their schools or communities dropped by 29%;

• who agreed that they, personally, could make a difference in helping solve such problems went up by 24%;

• who chose heroes because they were famous, rich and “did whatever they want” dropped by 20%;

• who chose heroes because they were brave, caring and “did what’s right, no matter what” went up by 39%.

4. A formal third party study of The Giraffe Heroes Program was completed by a team of evaluators from the University of Washington in late 1997. 100% of teachers in the study stated that they observed some or many positive attitude and behavior changes in students as a result of using The Giraffe Heroes Program; they particularly noted an increase in self-esteem, caring, teamwork and problem-solving skills. 75% of teachers said they observed positive changes in their own attitude or behavior as a result of using the Program. 92% of teachers rated the overall effectiveness of the Program as excellent. 100% rated its user-friendliness as excellent. 83% said they would encourage other teachers to use it.