"This timely addition to a new genre of evaluation methodology eschews the objectivity of an external evaluation in favor of internal value-driven assessments that advance the goal of self-improvement through self-determination. Fetterman offers down-to-earth, clearly written descriptions and explanations of an approach that reconciles the contingencies of organizational practice with the standards and principles of evaluation accountability. He adroitly bridges the gap between the subjectivity of self-evaluation and the objectivity of external evaluation by showing with case examples and detailed methods, forms, and narrative why empowerment evaluation extends the reach of standard evaluation practice." --Dennis Mithaug, Teacher's College, Columbia University What is empowerment evaluation? When is it the most appropriate approach to use in an evaluation? How can it best be implemented? Aimed at demystifying empowerment evaluation, the book shows readers when to use this form of evaluation and how to more effectively use its three steps (developing a mission statement; taking stock by identifying and prioritizing the most significant program activities; and, charting a course for future strategies to accomplish program goals). Fetterman also illustrates the steps with four case examples, ranging from hospital to educational settings. In addition, he covers: how to use empowerment evaluation to meet the standards developed by the Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation; the caveats and concerns about the use of empowerment evaluation; the relationship between collaborative, participatory, stakeholder, and utilization-focused evaluation with empowerment evaluation; the role of the Internet in disseminating empowerment evaluation; and, an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, and conditions of empowerment evaluation. This book will guide evaluators exploration of their roles as coaches, facilitators and advocates as well as enable them to more effectively use this innovative evaluation technique.

Table of Contents:
Introduction Introducing Empowerment Evaluation as Part of the Intellectual Landscape of Evaluation Background and Theory Exploring the Background and Theory of Empowerment Evaluation with Relevant Examples and Tools Three Steps Presenting the Three Steps of Empowerment Evaluation and Related Facets Four Case Examples Highlighting the Steps of Empowerment Evaluation with Four Case Examples A High Stakes Case Example Documenting the Utility, Credibility, and Rigor of Empowerment Evaluation in a High-Stakes Arena-Accreditation The Standards Applying the Standards to Empowerment Evaluation Caveats Discussing Caveats and Concerns About Empowerment Evaluation A Dialogue Distinguishing Empowerment Evaluation From Other Approaches The World Wide Web Using the Internet as a Tool to Disseminate Empowerment Evaluation Worldwide Conclusion Concluding by Speaking One′s Truth About the Strengths, Limitations, and Conditions of Empowerment Evaluation