Visualizing Evaluation Theory: Tree, Forest, or Ocean Currents?

Evaluation theories depicted as a five-branch tree reflect the assumptions of the post-positivist, constructivist, pragmatic, transformative, and Indigenous paradigms. A tree is useful because it provides a quick and clear way to show that different assumptions lead to different methodological assum...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Donna Mertens (Author)
Format: Book
Published: The Evaluation Center at Western Michigan University, 2024-08-01T00:00:00Z.
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Summary:Evaluation theories depicted as a five-branch tree reflect the assumptions of the post-positivist, constructivist, pragmatic, transformative, and Indigenous paradigms. A tree is useful because it provides a quick and clear way to show that different assumptions lead to different methodological assumptions. However, evaluation theory as a five-branch tree is limited because it does not show interrelationships between the paradigms. An ocean current visualization could accomplish that task, but it might not be a familiar concept for some populations. Evaluators need to check with stakeholders to ensure the visualizations that are used are viewed as useful to their purposes.
Item Description:1556-8180