Problems to watch for
Some problems that frequently arise in evaluation
studies are summarized in Box 14.1 as a reminder
of things to avoid when designing and conducting an evaluation.
- Starting an evaluation without clear agreement
with the sponsor on terms and conditions
- Lack of clear, measurable objectives to
serve as criteria for the outcomes of the program
- Failure to fully understand the program,
its history, operations, and other factors affecting its
outcomes
- Selection of weak or inappropriate indicators
for measuring outcome variables
- Use of inappropriate data for measuring
outcome variables
- Failure to consult with and gain the trust
and cooperation of stakeholders
- Failure to obtain review of a draft report
by the sponsor and stakeholders
- Preparation of a poorly organized
and written final report
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Ethical concerns
Evaluation research raises special concerns for the
protection of persons, groups, and organizations that are involved
in or affected by an evaluation. The American Evaluation Association
(AEA) has developed extensive ethical principles for protecting
the rights of clients and for ensuring that evaluators adhere to
the highest levels of professional competence and ethical standards.
These principles are listed at Guiding
Principles for Evaluators.
Box 14.2 lists some of the key provisions,
taken from the AEA set of principles, that you should follow in
any evaluation you do.
- Evaluations should be based on systematic,
data-based inquiries about whatever is being evaluated.
- Evaluators should provide the highest
level of competent performance to stakeholders.
- Evaluators should ensure honesty and integrity
in the entire evaluation process.
- Evaluators should respect the security,
dignity and self worth of the respondents, program participants,
clients, and other stakeholders with whom they interact.
- Evaluators should recognize and take into
account the diversity of interests and values that may be
related to the general and public welfare.
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