Page 185 - DLIS401_METHODOLOGY_OF_RESEARCH_AND_STATISTICAL_TECHNIQUES

Methodology of Research and Statistical Techniques

Notes Stufflebeam and Webster place approaches into one of three groups according to their orientation
toward the role of values, an ethical consideration. The political orientation promotes a positive
or negative view of an object regardless of what its value actually might be. They call this
pseudo-evaluation. The questions orientation includes approaches that might or might not
provide answers specifically related to the value of an object. They call this quasi-evaluation.
The values orientation includes approaches primarily intended to determine the value of some
object. They call this true evaluation.
When the above concepts are considered simultaneously, fifteen evaluation approaches can be
identified in terms of epistemology, major perspective (from House), and orientation (from
Stufflebeam & Webster). Two pseudo-evaluation approaches, politically controlled and public
relations studies, are represented. They are based on an objectivist epistemology from an elite
perspective. Six quasi-evaluation approaches use an objectivist epistemology. Five of them—
experimental research, management information systems, testing programs, objectives-based
studies, and content analysis—take an elite perspective. Accountability takes a mass perspective.
Seven true evaluation approaches are included. Two approaches, decision-oriented and policy
studies, are based on an objectivist epistemology from an elite perspective. Consumer-oriented
studies are based on an objectivist epistemology from a mass perspective. Two approaches—
accreditation/certification and connoisseur studies—are based on a subjectivist epistemology
from an elite perspective. Finally, adversary and client-centered studies are based on a subjectivist
epistemology from a mass perspective.

Task Make a report on evaluation approaches.

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
1. ................... are conceptually distinct ways of thinking about, designing and conducting
evaluation efforts.
2. House considers all major evaluation approaches to be based on a common ideology
................... .
3. The objectivist epistemology is associated with the ................... .
4. House Further divides each epistemological approach by two main ................... .
5. Two pseudo-evaluation approaches, politically controlled and ..................., are represented.

14.3 Summary of Approaches

Pseudo-evaluation
Politically controlled and public relations studies are based on an objectivist epistemology
from an elite perspective. Although both of these approaches seek to misrepresent value interpretations
about some object, they go about it a bit differently. Information obtained through politically
controlled studies is released or withheld to meet the special interests of the holder.
Public relations information is used to paint a positive image of an object regardless of the
actual situation. Neither of these approaches is acceptable evaluation practice, although the
seasoned reader can surely think of a few examples where they have been used.

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