Developmental Evaluation Exemplars Principles in Practice [Hardcover]

Responding to evaluator and instructor demand, this book presents a diverse set of high-quality developmental evaluation (DE) case studies. Twelve insightful exemplars illustrate how DE is used to evaluate innovative initiatives in complex, dynamic environments, including a range of fields and international settings. Written by leading practitioners, chapters offer a rare window into what it takes to do DE, what roles must be fulfilled, and what results can be expected. Each case opens with an incisive introduction by the editors. The book also addresses frequently asked questions about DE, synthesizes key themes and lessons learned from the exemplars, and identifies eight essential principles of DE.

See also Michael Quinn Patton'sDevelopmental Evaluation, the authoritative presentation of DE.

"Central to this book is the notion that DE is principle-driven (a most refreshing change away from ‘best practices’). DE is about learning and adjusting innovations for systems change, providing a basis for evaluations that embrace adaptation as conditions shift. Whether you are an evaluation student, instructor, or practitioner, the cases will help you learn your way into DE. Use them as part of your ongoing apprenticeship, as DE is learned through practice. You will appreciate the emphasis on the readiness conditions needed for DE to flourish. For anyone committed to participatory inquiry and action research, this book will become a trusted companion."--Ricardo Ramirez, PhD, independent researcher and evaluation consultant, Guelph, Ontario, Canada

"The contributors delve into the 'whats,' 'whys', and 'how-tos' of this powerful, adaptive model of evaluation. Chapters highlight key conceptual linkages to systems thinking and complexity theory and show how these ideas can come to life with community stakeholders and policymakers. The case studies are a treasure trove of powerful l#$