Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation (JCSEE) program evaluation standards in practice

This resource provides a practical guide for evaluators to apply the Program Evaluation Standards developed by the Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation (JCSEE)

This resource and the following information were contributed by Eval Academy by Three Hive Consulting.

Authors and their affiliation

Eval Academy by Three Hive Consulting Inc.

Key features

This resource provides a practical guide for evaluators to apply the Program Evaluation Standards developed by the Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation (JCSEE). It includes reflective prompts for each of the 30 Standards, grouped into categories such as Utility, Feasibility, Propriety, Accuracy, and Evaluation Accountability. The questions are designed to stimulate thinking about the practical application of the Standards in evaluation projects, helping evaluators ensure they address key considerations related to evaluator credibility, stakeholder engagement, project management, ethical considerations, data validity, and communication. The resource encourages evaluators to document their responses or reflect on them as part of their practice.

How have you used or intend to use this resource?

We've utilized this resource to enhance our evaluation practice by systematically reviewing each of the Program Evaluation Standards and reflecting on how they apply to our projects. The reflective prompts provided valuable guidance in identifying areas where we can improve our practice and ensure our evaluations meet rigorous standards. It helped us thoroughly consider aspects such as stakeholder engagement, ethical considerations, data validity, and communication strategies, leading to more comprehensive and robust evaluation designs. Additionally, the resource has been instrumental in facilitating discussions with our team and stakeholders about evaluation planning and implementation, fostering a shared understanding of the importance of adhering to high standards in evaluation practice.

Why would you recommend it to other people?

We highly recommend this resource to other evaluators because it offers a structured and comprehensive framework for evaluating programs effectively. The Program Evaluation Standards outlined in the resource provide a clear set of guidelines and reflective prompts that help evaluators ensure the quality and integrity of their evaluations. By systematically considering each standard and its implications for their work, evaluators can enhance their evaluations' rigour, credibility, and utility. Additionally, the resource encourages thoughtful reflection and discussion, making it a valuable tool for both individual evaluators and evaluation teams seeking to improve their practice. Overall, it is a valuable resource for anyone involved in program evaluation, from novices to seasoned professionals.