This accessible introductory text on program evaluation has a sound theoretical base, many practical examples, and case studies. The book is divided into four parts.
Part 1 provides an overview of the field of evaluation today, explains how evaluators think, how evaluation fits into the world of science, and how program logic, including theories of change and logic models, provides the links between cause and effect.
Part 2 looks at the program life cycle and explains the uses of evaluation in early program development, during program implementation, and at the end of a program's timeframe, when outcomes and impacts are so essential for program decision making.
Part 3 offers a quick summary of evaluation methods, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed. A chapter is devoted to each of these. Terms and processes are clearly explained, and evaluation examples are provided.
Part 4 explores the important topic of evaluation communication. It provides an example of the components of an evaluation plan and offers many practical examples of communication processes both during and after an evaluation. The final chapter considers the complex context in which evaluation occurs today and suggests ways to think about how evaluation interacts with global, environmental, and identity concerns.
Each chapter has useful features that enhance learning:
- An engaging chapter opener - A mind maps for visual learners - Classic frameworks and new approaches and examples - Evaluation case studies with an equity focus written by practitioners - Appealing graphics and useful tables - A brief closing interview with an evaluation expert - Student Challenges, Critical Thinking Questions, and Additional Readings and Resources
Industry Reviews
This is an excellent and accessible resource for both students and practitioners of program evaluation. The chapter on 'Using Mixed Methods in Evaluation' alone is worth the investment in this book. -- Debra Bartelli This text fills a much needed gap by providing an accessible resource for students taking program evaluation for the first time. -- Shane R. Brady The comprehensiveness of the text is its greatest strength. It hits all the right keys. It has an easy readability, and an excellent mix of text, graphics, teaching tools. -- Nancy G. Calleja With a focus on the practical aspects of evaluation, this textbook also integrates very relevant, and frequently overlooked, theoretical and conceptual frameworks that are extremely valuable for evaluators. -- Sebastian Galindo This book provides students with real-life relatable examples of program evaluation. It's an interesting read, and a must-use in the classroom! -- Heather Lenz A very interesting and practical introduction to program evaluation. The authors have provided sound arguments for conducting evaluations and a strong introduction to essential considerations in carrying through evaluations for the betterment of the agency, stakeholders and society as a whole. -- Ted L. Miller This is a thorough guide to conducting evaluation that addresses both concepts and practice. It provides a comprehensive view of all that evaluation entails, and delivers that content in a way that is very consumable to readers... well worth keeping beyond the class. -- Richard S. Mohn This is an excellent guide for anyone interested in conducting or learning about program evaluation. It looks at evaluation through new lens, recognizing the importance of diversity, the connection of local issues with global issues, and presents the material in a clear, easy to follow and digestible manner. -- Sandra Schrouder "Gail Vallance Barrington and Beverly Triana-Tremain have written the quintessential book on evaluation for students new to the science and those who need an updating. -- Randy Schultz This text offers a comprehensive yet practical introduction to program evaluation. The authors integrate new approaches, classic frameworks, and practical tools that students can use to design evaluation studies. -- Denna Wheeler
