Prior evaluations of evaluation theory have been problematic due in part to confusion about what exactly is being assessed. After drawing distinctions among evaluation theories, models, and approaches, the author examines three aspects of evaluation models and considers how the evaluation of a model depends on which aspect is being examined. The…

Evaluation studies are often considered exemplary because of the quality of their designs, but it is well known that a common--and often necessary--aspect of outstanding studies is stakeholder involvement. Furthermore, the implementation of designs and the nature of stakeholder involvement depend in large part on political and ideological…

Evaluation audiences can understand evaluation reports if the reports are written in common language, use proper organization, and incorporate information which provides the audience with a context for understanding the report. Suggestions about how this can be achieved are offered. (Author/RL)

The Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) system was used to identify 1,734 documents on program evaluation methodology. Attempts to further characterize these documents by subject were only partially successful because of the lack of sufficient depth of indexing and design constraints of the computer system. Attempts to characterize…

Evaluation as a discipline requires knowledge based on: empirical evidence; public verification; and usefulness in various settings and contexts. Activities which aid in accumulating this knowledge include: compliance with federal requirements; critiques and secondary data analyses; impact and use studies; comparative field studies; and…

The utility of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) system is criticized, based upon (1) difficulties in computerized retrieval of literature on evaluation; (2) the fact that few items listed in a bibliography on evaluation (RIE: ED 166 244) were included in the ERIC data base. (See also RIE: ED 160 664). (GDC)

An evaluation design is seen to ensure the presence of certain qualities in an evaluation; values and valued qualities permeate the evaluation design. Mechanisms for evaluations (in-process reviews, follow-up studies, etc.) are dealt with and familiarity with financial, managerial, and ethical procedures are stressed in the evaluation design. (CE)

With the theory that social and personal values influence the conduct of evaluation studies in education, the author discusses the impact of two major sources of such values--contextual factors, including political, social and organizational influences; and the terminology, models, and personal values of evaluators. Alternative purposes for an…

Foundation awards for evaluation work granted between 1972 and 1983 are described in terms of size of grants, nature of recipients and supporting foundations, yearly and geographic distribution patterns, and topical areas of primary support. Foundation resource materials are summarized. (Author/DWH)

An incident from evaluation practice is examined to aid understanding of moral problems in evaluation. Six characteristics are identified and discussed. Types of research needed on the moral aspects of evaluation practice are presented. Suggestions for aiding evaluators in dealing with moral problems are outlined. (Author/DWH)

Article offers a critical look at the current research base supporting the use of research models. (Author)

Gathered reflections of international and U.S. students on cultural, communication, and instructional difficulties of the task of bringing evaluation theory from the U.S. culture to other cultures, adjusting for differences and translating the theory for different contexts. (SLD)

This paper offers a critical look at the current research base supporting development and evaluation (D&E) models of instructional products. The author, accepting as valid a definition of D&E models as "exemplary models, outlining designs or conceptions of things worthy of imitation," examines current interest in their…