Evaluating With Sense
- 1 June 1983
- journal article
- research article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Evaluation Review
- Vol. 7 (3) , 283-302
- https://doi.org/10.1177/0193841x8300700301
Abstract
Arguing for more serious theorizing in connection with evaluation, this article shows that although the randomized controlled experiment conceptualized as a "black box" approach has dominated the discussions of impact assessment since the classic statements of Campbell and Stanley (1966), the use of theoretical models in connection with impact assessment can both heighten the power of experimental designs and compensatefor some of the major deficiencies of quasi-experimental designs. The article also emphasizes the importance of theoretical models of implementation processes, arguing that this process often constitutes the major obstacle to the full realization of effective programs.Keywords
This publication has 3 references indexed in Scilit:
- Selection biases in sociological dataSocial Science Research, 1982
- Crime and poverty in California: Some quasi-experimental evidenceSocial Science Research, 1982
- The Policy Implementation ProcessAdministration & Society, 1975