Evaluation Theories and Models

Learn how evaluation theory can improve your work!

This self-paced offering is for people who understand the fundamentals of evaluation, but are not well versed in evaluation theory, models, or frameworks. Drawing on the evaluation theory tree, the course provides examples from each of the four families of theories, and allows you to plan an evaluation from each theory family.

Course Objectives:

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Explain how evaluation theories and models contribute to improved evaluation practice;
• Identify four “families” of evaluation theories;
• Describe the characteristics of five widely-used evaluation models:
  • Utilization-focused evaluation;
  • Practical participatory evaluation;
  • Theory-driven evaluation;
  • Realist evaluation;
  • Transformative evaluation; and
• Use each approach to plan an evaluation.

Estimated Time to Complete:  6 hours

Prerequisites: Familiarity with evaluation concepts and practices

Evaluation Competencies addressed:  [ ] reflective; [x] technical; [x] situational; [ ] management; [ ] interpersonal.

Note: For all self-paced courses on the e-Institute you have three months to complete the course, starting from the date of purchase.