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On evaluating evaluations

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Abstract

The act of evaluation requires an expenditure of resources. In Part I of this paper, we present a simple decision tree model borrowed from operations research to provide a conceptual framework for considering whether or not to commit such resources. In Part II, once the evaluation is carried out, we address the problem of evaluating the evaluation as a vehicle for producing useful information to decisionmakers. Evaluation inputs, processes, and outcomes are defined and discussed within the context of comprehensive evaluation of evaluations.

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This work was supported by grant 80-IJ-CX-0048 from the National Institute of Justice of the U.S. Department of Justice to the Operations Research Center of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Points of view or opinions stated in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.

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Larson, R.C., Berliner, L. On evaluating evaluations. Policy Sci 16, 147–163 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00138348

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00138348

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