Examination of five major types of evaluation theory: evaluation
for policy making, accountability, learning, contextual
understanding, and democratization. Exemplar studies and
theorists are presented along with substantive and political
issues related to each theory type. Assumptions about knowledge,
values, social change, and the role of evaluation in society are
examined.
Athena Title
Evaluation Theory
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in QUAL 8513E
Prerequisite
QUAL 8400 or QUAL 8400E
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students will be able to conduct a critical analysis of diverse theories of evaluation, including core evaluation constructs (e.g., location of values, view of social programs, intended utilization).
At the end of this course, students will be able to identify major evaluation theorists.
At the end of this course, students will be able to apply selected evaluation theories to contemporary texts.
At the end of this course, students will be able to initiate development of their own evaluation approach, be it eclectic and flexible or firmly fixed within one established theory or another.
Topical Outline
Topics
The landscape of evaluation theory and contemporary evaluation controversies and issues
Evaluation theory for policy and macro decision making
Impact evaluation: Miracle or minefield?
Evaluation theory for accountability
Just what is credible evidence anyway?
Evaluation theory for learning and education and for “use”
The promises and perils of program theory and logic models
