Theory-Driven Evaluations

A new, comprehensive framework for programme evaluation designed to bridge the gap between the method- and theory-oriented perspectives, is presented in this book, newly available in paper. Chen provides an intensive discussion of the nature and functions of programme theory, approaches to constructing programme theories, and the integration of programme theory with evaluation processes. Specific types of theory-driven evaluations, as well as principles and guidelines for application, are developed for meeting different policy purposes. Application of systematic strategies is illustrated by concrete examples from a variety of evaluation studies in different fields.

Table of Contents:
PART ONE: INTRODUCTION Method and Theory in Program Evaluation A Question of Balance PART TWO: THE THEORY-DRIVEN PERSPECTIVE The Theory-Driven Perspective The New Alternative Constructing Program Theory Values, Approaches, and Strategies Applications of Theory-Driven Evaluations PART THREE: NORMATIVE EVALUATIONS: BASIC TYPES Normative Outcome Evaluation Normative Treatment Evaluation Normative Implementation Environment Evaluation PART FOUR: CAUSAL EVALUATIONS: BASIC TYPES Impact Evaluation I Broadening the Evidence Base Impact Evaluation II Assessing Intended and Unintended Outcomes Intervening Mechanism Evaluation Generalization Evaluation PART FIVE: COMPOSITE TYPES Normative Treatment-Impact Evaluation Normative Implementation Environment-Impact Evaluation PART SIX: CONCLUSIONS AND DISCUSSION

About the Author :
Huey T. Chen has been a Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham since 2002.  He was born and raised in Taiwan.  Dr. Chen worked at the University of Akron until 1997, when he joined the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the chief of an evaluation branch. Dr. Chen had taken a leadership role in designing and implementing a national evaluation system for assessing the CDC funded HIV prevention programs, which are based in health departments and community organizations.  Dr. Chen has contributed to the development of evaluation theory and methodology, especially in the areas of program theory and theory-driven evaluations. His book, Theory-Driven Evaluations, has been recognized as one of the landmarks in program evaluation.  In 1998 he received the Senior Biomedical Research Service Award from the CDC. He is also the 1993 recipient of the Paul F. Lazarsfeld Award for contributions to Evaluation Theory from the American Evaluation Association.