Program Evaluation Theory and Practice 1st edition by Donna Mertens, Amy Wilson 1462503152 9781462503155

his engaging text takes an evenhanded approach to major theoretical paradigms in evaluation and builds a bridge from them to evaluation practice. Featuring helpful checklists, procedural steps, provocative questions that invite readers to explore their own theoretical assumptions, and practical exercises, the book provides concrete guidance for conducting large- and small-scale evaluations. Numerous sample studies―many with reflective commentary from the evaluators―reveal the process through which an evaluator incorporates a paradigm into an actual research project. The book shows how theory informs methodological choices (the specifics of planning, implementing, and using evaluations). It offers balanced coverage of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches.   Useful pedagogical features include: *Examples of large- and small-scale evaluations from multiple disciplines. *Beginning-of-chapter reflection questions that set the stage for the material covered. *””Extending your thinking”” questions and practical activities that help readers apply particular theoretical paradigms in their own evaluation projects. *Relevant Web links, including pathways to more details about sampling, data collection, and analysis. *Boxes offering a closer look at key evaluation concepts and additional studies. *Checklists for readers to determine if they have followed recommended practice. 

 

Program Evaluation Theory and Practice 1st Table of contents:

I. The Landscape of Evaluation

1. Introduction to Evaluation: Defining Terms and Ethical Considerations
2. Framing Evaluation: Paradigms, Branches, and Theories

II. Historical and Contemporary Approaches
3. The Postpositivist Paradigm: Methods Branch
4. The Pragmatic Paradigm: Use Branch
5. The Constructivist Paradigm: Values Branch
6. The Transformative Paradigm: Social Justice Branch

III. Planning Evaluations
7. Working with Stakeholders: Context and Evaluand
8. Evaluation Purposes and Questions
9. Designs and Data Collection: Strategies and Indicators
10. Sampling and Stakeholder Engagement
11. Data Analysis and Interpretation

IV. Implementation in Evaluation
12. Findings Communication and Utilization
13. Meta-Evaluation and Project Management
14. Current Issues in Evaluation