Evaluation : an integrated framework for understanding, guiding, and improving policies and programs

Mark, Melvin M. (Author). Henry, Gary T. (Added Author). Julnes, George, 1954- (Added Author).

Summary: Presents a theory of evaluation as assisted sense-making, with social betterment as its ultimate objective. Mark (psychology, Pennsylvania State U.) and two co-authors analyze four purposes of evaluation: to review the merit of programs and their value to society, to improve the organization and its services, to ensure program compliance with mandates, and to build knowledge and expertise for future programs. One chapter is devoted to each of four key modes of inquiry: description, classification, causal analysis, and values inquiry. Note: the publisher has changed the subtitle; some copies show the old subtitle: Improving public and nonprofit policies and programs. Annotation copyrighted by Book News Inc., Portland, OR.

Record details

ISBN: 0787948020
ISBN: 9780787948023
Physical Description: print
xv, 400 pages ; 24 cm.
Edition: 1st ed.
Publisher: San Francisco : Jossey-Bass, ©2000.

Content descriptions

General Note:	Errata slip inserted.
Bibliography, etc. Note:	Includes bibliographical references (pages 339-371) and index.
Formatted Contents Note:	Part one: Social betterment through evaluation -- Introducing a framework for evaluation -- Understanding social betterment and the role of values in evaluation -- Defining evaluation purposes -- Specifying inquiry modes -- Part two: Linking betterment, evaluation practice, and realism -- Planning evaluations -- Integrating realism and assisted sensemaking -- Part three: Four inquiry modes -- Description -- Classification -- Causal analysis -- Values inquiry -- Conclusion: Meeting the challenges of evaluation.