Empowerment Evaluation and Technology: Building a Virtual Computer Science/STEM+C Evaluation Learning Community

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 32

Session Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

Computer science innovations are driving forces in the US economy. However, there is no common agreement on how best to implement CS/STEM+C educational programs or measure the effectiveness of these programs. The Google organized “Evaluation Wrecking Crew” has emerged in response to these challenges and the common need to build evaluation capacity in this rapidly changing field.

The group decided to use an empowerment evaluation approach to focus their efforts and produce measurable outcomes. The steps included: 1) establishing a mission; 2) taking stock of current status; and 3) planning for the future. Technological tools used to facilitate and document this effort included: videoconferencing tools, such as Google Hangouts, Zoom; Google Docs, Sheets, and Forms; and Awesome Tables.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Research on Evaluation

Chair

• David M. Fetterman, Fetterman and Associates

Papers

• Using Empowerment Evaluation to Build a Community Consensus, Self-Assess, and Plan for the Future - David M. Fetterman, Fetterman and Associates; Jason Ravitz, Google Inc

• Technological Tools Used to Implement an Empowerment Evaluation Remotely and Build Community in the Process - Jason Ravitz, Google Inc; David M. Fetterman, Fetterman and Associates