When examining various evaluation prescriptive theories comparatively, we find it helpful to have a framework showing how they are related that highlights features that distinguish theoretical perspectives, thus a "theory" about theories. The evaluation theory tree that we presented in Alkin's recent book, "Evaluation Roots" [Eisner, E. (2004).…

Discusses the misuse of evaluation by exploring the ethics of those using the evaluation. Characterizes various misuse situations, including financial misuse, and provides insight into why misuse of evaluation takes place. (SLD)

For purposes of categorizing those things that perhaps determine the extent to which evaluation findings will be utilized, four sets of factors are considered in this paper: (1) the decision maker/decision process, (2) the program and social context, (3) the nature of the evaluator , and (4) the evaluation process/evaluation report. (Author/RC)

This is an introduction to the six following articles, which discuss three people's views of evaluation in the perspective of "The New Rhetoric: A Treatise on Argumentation" by Perelman and Olbrechts-Tyteca, a book that contrasts argument and persuasion with reason and reasoning. (See TM 504 631-636). (CTM)

This essay discusses principles which govern evaluation theorizing, describing theorizing as a subjective, informal, and dynamic process. The papers of Rippey, Guba, and Wolf are used to illustrate the process of theory development, with special reference to evaluation as rhetoric. (See TM 504 630-635). (CTM)

An overview of the issue of national educational quality indicators is presented, based on a synthesis of the informed judgments of several respondents from throughout the world. Responses from 18 members of the International Association for Educational Assessment (from Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Middle East) are considered…

The User Interview Survey examined patterns of information use among elementary school decision makers. The goal was a better understanding of the mix of evaluation and other information inputs into program decisions. The study results are reported, and their implications for improving evaluation utilization at the local level are discussed. (BW)

Definitional issues on misuse of evaluation results are discussed, and examples from the research literature are presented. It is concluded that the concept of misutilization is insufficiently delineated and that a systematic exploration of the subject is warranted. (TJH)

This introduction to a special section on evaluation utilization decribes the charge presented to the commissioned authors: to clarify what is meant by evaluation utilization. The resulting papers are described as presenting a clear rejection of the term utilization and as providing substantial assistance in distinguishing between utilization and…