Foundations of Program Evaluation: Theories of Practice

by William R. Shadish Jr, Thomas D. Cook, Laura C. Leviton

Foundations of Program Evaluation heralds a thorough exploration of the field of program evaluation--looking back on its origins. By summarizing, comparing, and contrasting the work of seven major theorists of program evaluation, this book provides an important perspective on the current state of evaluation theory and provides suggestions for ways of improving its practice. Beginning in Chapter Two, the authors develop a conceptual framework to analyze how successfully each theory meets the specific criteria of its framework. Each subsequent chapter is devoted to the presentation of the theoretical and practical advice of a significant theorist--Michael Scriven, Donald Campbell, Carol Weiss, Joseph Wholey, Robert Stake, Lee Cronbach, and Peter Rossi.

536 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1990

Reviews

[Samantha Nickelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Provides solid information and background about evaluation theory. Helpful when trying to conceptualize your own theory of evaluation.