PD25-01 Approaches to Evaluating Educational Programs

Session Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

Credible and useful evaluations require selecting an appropriate evaluation model or approach. Research has shown that choosing an approach can be challenging for various reasons. This course will make these decisions more manageable and transparent. This course covers essential concepts for evaluating educational programs and focuses on the characteristics that distinguish evaluation approaches. Participants will learn about multiple evaluation approaches using the Garden of Evaluation Approaches, an empirically based framework published in the American Journal of Evaluation. This framework describes the roles of values, valuing, social justice, context, use, engagement, and power dynamics in evaluation. The course combines interactive lectures, hands-on exercises, and case-based applications to ensure a dynamic and engaging learning experience, preparing you for real-world evaluation scenarios.

This course is targeted to graduate students, early career scholars and practitioners, and experienced evaluators and researchers interested in updating their evaluation knowledge and skills. Participants would benefit from having a basic understanding of research methods, but it is not a prerequisite. By the end of the course, participants will be able to (a) explain the purpose of evaluation approaches, (b) evaluate the strengths and opportunities associated with different evaluation approaches and their applicability in diverse educational contexts, and (c) apply multiple approaches in practice.

Participants should bring a laptop or tablet. All necessary materials, including case studies and handouts, will be provided. There is an additional course fee: Member: $120/Non-member: $150

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee

Director

• Lyssa Wilson Becho, Western Michigan University

Instructors

• Lyssa Wilson Becho, Western Michigan University

• Bianca Montrosse-Moorhead, University of Connecticut

• Daniela Schroeter, Western Michigan University