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An Empirical Review of Theory-Driven Evaluation Practice from 1990 - 2008
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| Presenter(s):
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| Chris L S Coryn, Western Michigan University, chris.coryn@wmich.edu
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| Lindsay Noakes, Western Michigan University, lindsay.noakes@wmich.edu
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| Daniela C Schroeter, Western Michigan University, daniela.schroeter@wmich.edu
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| Carl Westine, Western Michigan University, carl.d.westine@wmich.edu
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| Abstract:
Evaluation theories are models for evaluation practice. They are intended to guide practice rather than explain phenomenon and they are prescriptions for the ideal. Such theories address the focus and role of evaluation, specific questions to be studied, design and implementation, and use of results. Although its origins can be traced to Ralph Tyler in the 1930s, later reappearing in the 1960s and 1970s, and again in the 1980s, it was not until 1990 that theory-driven evaluation resonated more widely in the evaluation community with the publication of Huey Chen's book Theory-Driven Evaluations. Since then, conceptual and theoretical writings on the approach have been commonplace. Nonetheless, the degree to which theory-driven evaluation practice adheres to and exemplifies the central principles of the approach as described and prescribed by prominent theoretical writers is disputable. In this study, the authors examined whether theoretical prescriptions and real-world practices do or do not align.
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Key Factors That Influence Logic Model Use and Benefits: Findings From Evaluation Practitioners
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| Presenter(s):
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| Rosalie Torres, Torres Consulting Group, rosalie@torresconsultinggroup.com
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| Rodney Hopson, Duquesne University, hopson@duq.edu
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| Jill Casey, Torres Consulting Group, jill@torresconsultinggroup.com
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| Abstract:
Within the field of evaluation, several tools related to explicating program design, theory, activities, and contextual influences are in use. Among these are: logic models, theories of action, theories of change, and systems approaches to evaluation. This paper will review the use of these tools as examined through an NSF-funded survey of logic model practitioners. Using a combined survey-interview methodology, this study will address these research questions: (a) What types of logic model schemes (traditional logic model, theory of change, etc.) are currently being used among AEA logic model practitioners? (b) How are they being used and what factors influence the nature and impact of use? (c) Within what different cultural contexts (i.e., race/ethnicity, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation) is use occurring? The paper will describe key factors influencing the development, design, content, and use of these tools, as well as the benefits and challenges to use. Implications for (a) improving current practice and (b) further research will be highlighted.
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