The quality of mixed methods systematic reviews relies on the quality of primary-level studies. The synthesis of qualitative evidence and the recent development of synthesizing mixed methods studies hold promise, but also pose challenges to evidence synthesis.

Critiques the chapters in this theme issue and concludes that the challenges to the pragmatic use of deliberative democratic evaluation are great. Current practice and theory do not go far enough to unmask the potential of evaluation for supporting democratic practices and creating democratic communities. (Author/SLD)

Setting the context for this theme issue on responsive evaluation, this article describes the core ideas of Robert Stake's responsive evaluation, presenting them as originally framed and discussing their evolution over time. Explains that the rhetoric and ethic of responsive evaluation is to be open, to find more than the initial issues. (SLD)

Triangulates Christie's findings with other research on the evaluation practice-theory relationship and offers additional methods and directions for future research on evaluation practice. (SLD)

Reviews critical dimensions in evaluation that emerge from efforts to promote use within a context of stakeholder participation. Case examples illustrate two potentially problematic domains: stakeholder selection and depth of stakeholder involvement. (Author/SLD)

Examines arguments for and against evaluation advocacy in terms of the American Evaluation Association's "Guiding Principles for Evaluators" and other statements on advocacy and neutrality. Suggests revision of the "Guiding Principles." (Author/SLD)

Reviewed general outcome indicators using a conceptual framework from the program evaluation literature to summarize findings and issues from the domain of welfare policy in the United States. The review illustrates the new knowledge gained about the effects of requiring work and suggests questions that must be answered. (SLD)

Findings from empirical research on evaluation ethics indicate an apparent lack of consensus within the field concerning what constitutes an ethical issue, the frequent occurrence of problems in the later stages of evaluation projects, and the perceived ethical significance of the tendency of evaluators to be more responsive to some stakeholders…

Reviews some of the ethical issues identified in evaluations in the United States and considers the similarities and differences in application of these issues in developing countries. Identifies a number of ethical issues in international evaluations that are less common in the United States. (SLD)

Provides a historical review of feminist theory and research that provides a context for and offers critical challenges to contemporary ideas about the meanings and intents of feminist inquiry and evaluation. This overview demonstrates the continued importance of paying attention to gender, particularly in education. (SLD)

In this chapter, the authors review the literature on partnership evolution to offer strategies for developing collaborative evaluator-client relationships. They begin with a brief introduction to partnerships and their approach to client relationships. A synthesis of the literature on partnership evolution is provided and applied to the…