An Interactive and Case-Centered Primer on Evaluation Theories and Approaches

Session Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

This interactive, case-centered course covers historical and contemporary theories and approaches to evaluation in diverse educational contexts.This one-day course is appropriate for graduate students, early career researchers, and evaluators with little or no prior knowledge of evaluation theories and approaches. Senior researchers and evaluators who wish to expand their knowledge and use of contemporary theories and approaches may also benefit. This course will use real-life case studies to learn about historical and contemporary theories and approaches to designing and implementing evaluation, and practice putting this knowledge to use. Brief lectures, group activities, and audience engagement will encourage participants to (a) recognize different methods-, use-, values-, and social justice–oriented evaluation theories and approaches; (b) identify strengths, limits, and opportunities associated with the various evaluation theories and approaches in differing educational contexts; and (c) apply different theories and approaches in evaluation practice. Participants completing the course will gain insight into how their own backgrounds, training, and contexts may influence their choice of or preference for particular approaches. Participants will be asked to read a case prior to the course.

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee

Instructors

• Bianca Montrosse-Moorhead, University of Connecticut

• Daniela Schroeter, Western Michigan University

• Lyssa N. Wilson, Western Michigan University