Selecting and Implementing Evidence-Based Practices:
A Guide for Child and Family Serving Systems
This guide provides information and examples of implementation relevant to those working with children and families in the child welfare and other social services systems. It provides concrete information that systems across the nation can use to evaluate their needs, identify what programs are currently being used, make decisions about which new programs, if any, to add, and plan for implementation activities. It was designed as a companion to the CEBC program registry and is based on the emerging body of research known as Implementation Science and on lessons learned through CEBC technical assistance efforts with county child welfare systems.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Purpose of the Guide
Background on Implementation Science
CEBC Definition of Evidence-Based Practice
Dissemination and training on EBPs
Implementation definitions and concepts
Why look at implementation?
How to support implementation: frameworks vs. strategies
Overview of the EPIS Framework
EPIS and Using the CEBC for Implementation
Exploration Phase
Preparation Phase
Implementation Phase
Sustainment Phase
Putting it all Together
Appendix
Glossary
Resources and Tools referred to in Guide
Sample Questions to address in each EPIS phase of Implementation
Common Implementation strategies that have been used in CWS
Resource list of other clearinghouses and helpful sites
References
Key Implementation steps by EPIS phase
Acknowledgements: We would like to acknowledge the contributions of several individuals to the development of this guide. First, Lynne Marsenich assisted with the framing and execution of the guide, and provided feedback throughout its drafting. We thank the CEBC Implementation Science Panel for their input, particularly Lawrence Palinkas, Patricia Chamberlain, and Sonja Schoenwald who reviewed full drafts and provided comments. Charles Wilson, CEBC Director, and John Landsverk, CEBC Scientific Director, provided guidance throughout the development of the guide. Finally, we appreciate the efforts of internal Chadwick Center staff, including Jennifer Hossler, Lisa Conradi, and Molly Robb, who reviewed drafts and provided feedback, and Jennifer Demaree, for her efforts in editing and formatting the guide.
Suggested Citation: Cambria Walsh, Jennifer Rolls Reutz, Rhonda Williams (2014). Selecting and Implementing Evidence-Based Practices: A Guide for Child and Family Serving Systems. San Diego, CA: California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare.