Evaluators discuss the conceptual, or theoretical, basis for the program because
A) theory is more interesting and complex than the service program being evaluated.
B) most program staff members and agency administrators have thoroughly considered the conceptual basis of their service and are eager to have it used in an evaluation.
C) they have been trained to do so, but such discussions add little to the quality of the program.
D) program theory helps evaluators to learn what might be important to observe and measure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Evaluators discuss the conceptual or theoretical basis for the program because program theory helps evaluators to learn what might be important to observe and measure. While program staff members and agency administrators may have considered the conceptual basis of their service, this is not always the case, and it is not the primary reason for evaluators to discuss program theory. The discussion of program theory is not solely for the interest of the evaluator, but rather to improve the quality of the program being evaluated.

Evaluators Discuss the Conceptual, or Theoretical, Basis for the Program