In this paper we share our reflections, as evaluators, on an evaluation where we encountered Excessive Evaluation Anxiety (XEA). The signs of XEA which we discerned were particularly evident amongst the program head and staff who were part of a new training program. We present our insights on the evaluation process and its difficulties, as well as…

One of the challenges facing program evaluation education is how to bridge the need to train students in theoretical and methodological foundations, and also prepare them for the unpredictability and complex environment outside the classroom. This issue is particularly challenging in terms of understanding stakeholder values and interests. The…

Evaluators face challenges when programs consistently fail to meet expectations for performance or improvement and consequently, evaluators may recommend that closing a program is the most prudent course of action. However, the evaluation literature provides little guidance regarding when an evaluator might recommend program closure. Given…

Explores the challenges of performance measurement in the context of political and resource pressures that frame the demand and supply of program evaluation. Professional evaluators must be resourceful and efficient in using their intellectual and persuasive powers to enlighten politicians and the public about program theory and effective…

Conceptualizes key differences between management and leadership as a basis for suggesting ways in which evaluators might operate to serve the decision-making needs of organizational leaders. Evaluators will provide maximum leverage if they work directly with the leadership to promote review and change. (SLD)

Poses the ethical challenges involved when an evaluation report is being misinterpreted to serve political ends through program cancellation and considers the internal evaluator's responsibility and effectiveness. Commentaries reflect on codes of behavior and the position of an evaluator with respect to program management. (SLD)