|
To be or Not to be a Profession: Pros, Cons and Challenges for the Evaluation Community
|
| Presenter(s):
|
| Steve Jacob, Laval University, steve.jacob@pol.ulaval.ca
|
| Abstract:
Debates on the professionalization of evaluation regularly fuel the discussion. Evaluation literature contains varied points of view in favour or in disfavour of consolidating quality control mechanisms. This presentation examines the aims and challenges pursued by the promoters of the professionalization of evaluation (e.g. institutionalization, quality improvement). It will then present the mechanisms envisioned by the Quebecois Society of Program Evaluation (Canada) designed to address these points. These mechanisms include the drafting process of an evaluation chart, adhesion to a professional order, and evaluator certification. This presentation is based on a documentary review and also on an analysis of semi-directed interviews conducted with members and former members of the Quebecois Society of Program Evaluation (SQEP) and its administrative council. The results that I will present will help to fuel debates in matters of the professionalization of the evaluative practice which arise in most contexts where evaluation has reached a certain maturity.
|
|
The Road Less Traveled: Integrating Internal and External Evaluation
|
| Presenter(s):
|
| Sheila Arens, Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning, sarens@mcrel.org
|
| Andrea Beesley, Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning, abeesley@mcrel.org
|
| Abstract:
Making a decision about whether a project is appropriate for an internal evaluation perspective or employ an external evaluation perspective is one that many organizations face. The merits of internal and external evaluation are many and have been broadly discussed. Internal and external evaluation efforts do not have to be at odds with one another; indeed, each brings a valued, and hopefully diverse, perspective to an understanding of program processes, functions, outcomes. Rarely, however, do programs have the luxury of being able to fund both an internal and an external evaluator. In this paper, we describe our experiences acting as external evaluators side-by-side with internal evaluators. Presenters will discuss both advantages and challenges of this approach to evaluation and offer suggestions for ensuring the success of such an arrangement for the involved evaluators and the client.
|
| |