Evaluation Theory Models and Application - Softcover

Evaluation Theory, Models, and Applications is a comprehensive resource designed to help evaluators and students develop a commanding knowledge of the evaluation field: its history, theory and standards, models and approaches, procedures, and inclusion of personnel and program evaluation. This important book shows how to choose from the growing array of program evaluation approaches.

The authors have compiled vital information from the evaluation literature and draw on a wide range of practical experience. Using this book, evaluators will be able to identify, analyze, and judge 26 evaluation approaches and to apply the Joint Committee Program Evaluation Standards to discriminate between legitimate and illicit approaches.

Recognizing that no single evaluation approach is always best, the authors assist evaluators to select approaches that best fit a particular evaluation assignment. A case drawn from housing and community development illustrates the application of six noteworthy approaches: experimental design, case study, Stufflebeam's CIPP Model, Scriven's consumer-oriented evaluation, Stake's responsive evaluation, and Patton's utilization-focused evaluation.

Written for students and professionals, Evaluation Theory, Models, and Applications is both a textbook and a handbook. Its chapters can be accessed and used selectively. It includes down-to-earth procedures, checklists, and illustrations of how to carry out a sequence of essential evaluation tasks; identify and assess evaluation opportunities; prepare an institution to support a projected evaluation; design, budget, and contract evaluations; collect, analyze, and synthesize information; and report and facilitate use of findings. The book also addresses and illustrates metaevaluation, the fundamental process by which evaluators hold themselves accountable for delivering evaluation services that are useful, practical, ethical, and technically sound.

Review exercises and group discussion questions reinforce readers' understanding of the material.

Anthony J. Shinkfield, Ed.D., has served in numerous positions in education leadership, including assistant director, Research and Planning Directorate, Education Department of South Australia. He is currently involved in the evaluation of independent schools and universities in Australia.