| Session Title: Program Theory and Theory-driven Evaluation TIG Business Meeting and Think Tank: Theories of Value and the Value of Theories: A Theory-based Evaluation Perspective |
| Business Meeting Session 407 to be held in Pacific A on Thursday, Nov 3, 2:50 PM to 4:20 PM |
| Sponsored by the Program Theory and Theory-driven Evaluation TIG and the Presidential Strand |
| TIG Leader(s): |
| John Gargani, Gargani + Company Inc, john@gcoinc.com |
| Katrina Bledsoe, Education Development Center Inc, katrina.bledsoe@gmail.com |
| Chair(s): |
| Katrina Bledsoe, Education Development Center Inc, katrina.bledsoe@gmail.com |
| Presenter(s): |
| John Gargani, Gargani + Company Inc, john@gcoinc.com |
| Discussant(s): |
| John Gargani, Gargani + Company Inc, john@gcoinc.com |
| Stewart Donaldson, Claremont Graduate University, stewart.donaldson@cgu.edu |
| David Fetterman, Fetterman & Associates, fettermanassociates@gmail.com |
| Abstract: In this think tank presentation, we will debate competing answers to fundamental questions underlying theory-based/theory-driven evaluation. We start from the premise that program theories (frequently represented as logic models) reflect the values of those who construct them. Given this, are there theories of values that can inform evaluation practitioners as they work with stakeholders to construct program theories? Help stakeholders decide whose values to include? Guide us as we navigate conflicting values? Theory-based evaluators look to theories when wrestling with difficult questions such as these. That, of course, assumes that theories add value to our uncertain pursuits. Do they? Or do they merely reflect the values of social scientists who have been indoctrinated to accept an outdated, overly academic world view? Through brief presentations and lively discussion, we will hash out these and other questions of how considering values can improve evaluation practice. |