Practical Program Evaluation

Theory-Driven Evaluation and the Integrated Evaluation Perspective

NEW TO THIS EDITION:

• A new comprehensive evaluation typology in Chapter 2 helps readers systematically identify stakeholders’ needs and select the evaluation options best suited to those needs.
• A new Part V, Advanced Issues in Program Evaluation, includes three new chapters that help readers understand challenging issues and innovative approaches, and enhance their competencies in applying them.
• Coverage of cutting-edge evaluation perspectives and approaches, including the Action Model/Change Model Schema, helps readers think “outside the box.”
• New chapters introduce the innovative holistic effectuality approach as an alternative to the traditional experimentation evaluation approach for conducting real-world outcome evaluation and expand the scope of evaluation from effectuality to viability and transferability.
• A new Chapter 14 explores the relative strengths and limitations of formal theories versus stakeholder theories.
• A new Chapter 15 compares two approaches to evaluation and dissemination: the top-down approach versus the bottom-up approach.
• The more complex evaluation theories presented in later chapters are presented in accessible language and illustrated with interesting real-world examples.

KEY FEATURES:

• Illustrative examples from the field and coverage of the methods, procedures, pros, cons, and tradeoffs involved in using various evaluation options help readers put each evaluation approach into action.
• The evaluation cycle is covered from start to finish: program planning, initial implementation, mature implementation, and outcomes.
• The book highlights both the art and science of program evaluation.