The preconditions for successful evaluation: Is there an ideal paradigm?

✍ Scribed by Dennis J. Palumbo; David Nachmias

• Book ID: 104637514
• Publisher: Springer US
• Year: 1983
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 790 KB
• Volume: 16
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0032-2687
• DOI: 10.1007/bf00138468

✦ Synopsis

The dominant paradigm in evalua,tion research is undergoing serious challenge. This article explores the ideal role of evaluation in decisionmaking, the methodologies for conducting evaluations, the congruence between evaluation methodology and actual organizational behavior, and the relationship between evaluators and program managers. We conclude that although there are serious disparities between the ideal and the actual in each of these four areas, and especially in the congruence between evaluation methodology and organizational behavior, there is not likely to be a change in the dominant paradigm because it is difficult for practitioners to use the language and values of new organizational perspectives.

The field of evaluation research is undergoing an identity crisis. From its initial surge in the 1960s when it was dominated by a single paradigm and researchers believed that its potential was unlimited, it has been undergoing a metamorphosis. Instead of a dominant paradigm, several alternative approaches to evaluation have emerged and skepticism about its potential contributions to public policy has been raised. House