The Power of Evaluation Research
Evaluation research is applied research (solving practical problems) which offers different outcomes to pure research (proving scientific theories). Evaluation research is especially important at times of renewed funding or investment to answer questions such as: where are our resources best placed for maximum benefit to our clients? Evaluation research at its very heart is based on an action research cycle that includes five elements: define the issue, observe and collect data; plan program or intervention; act or intervene; analyse and reflect on the action or intervention; and report the findings. This type of evaluation research then offers decision makers with the opportunity to refine their program to improve the experience and outcomes for their clients in the second and subsequent cycles of delivery. Evaluation research is also...
