ERIC Number: ED212212
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1981-Oct-29
Pages: 38
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Are Evaluation Activities Worth the Effort?
Carlson, Robert V.
The casual approach to evaluation, the interface of evaluation and research, and various approaches subsumed within evaluation are addressed, and the dimensions that determine the worth of engaging in evaluation activities are examined. Additionally, a statement about the state-of-the-art in regard to the technology of conducting evaluation studies is presented. The practice referred to as the "casual approach" appears to be a dominant style of a large percentage of organizational personnel. The following dimensions of a casual approach to evaluation are examined: face-to-face discussions, random observations, group discussions, and individual reflections. It is suggested that the potential strengths of the casual approach be strengthened with the tools and disciplines of evaluation and research. Comparisons are made between the methodologies of research, evaluation, evaluation research, and policy analysis/research in regard to purpose, process, products, and criteria for judging quality. Additionally, a taxonomy of eight specific evaluation approaches is presented. Factors that determine whether to conduct formal evaluation activities are identified, and utility standards, feasibility standards, proprietary standards, and accuracy standards for educational program evaluation are presented. In addition, steps of a program evaluation are detailed, and areas that need improved strategies are listed. A bibliography is appended. (SW)
Publication Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers; Opinion Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Society for Medical Technology (Rochester, NY, October 29, 1981).