Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Evaluation is defined as a systematic retrospective assessment of effects, performance (output) and processes (administration and decision-making content as well as organisation of public activities) in public policy, which is intended to play a role in practical action situations (Vedung 1998, 2009 – retrieved from Krogstrup 2016 p. 41). The purpose of the elective course in evaluation is to give students a broad insight into evaluation theory as well as perspectives on the application and use of evaluations in late modern society. Through the course, the students' ability to reflect critically on the possibilities and limitations of the various evaluation models and to transfer this knowledge to current sociological issues is trained. This equips the students to assess and carry out evaluations at a basic level.

The course provides a theoretical review of different types of evaluation model and an introduction to evaluation as applied research. That is, research that makes use of sociological methods and theory, complies with scientific relevance criteria, and is applied in practice.

Important focal points are: Evaluation models and the use of research methods in these, as well as the interaction between research, management principles and the use of evaluations in public (e.g. social work and education) and private companies. Evaluation as a special sociological practice is sought to be identified. To achieve both a theoretical and practical understanding of the different evaluation models as well as their potential advantages and limitations, the elective course is organized as a mix between lectures, dialogue, and exercises.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

After participation in the course, students should have:

• obtained a basic theoretical, methodological and empirical knowledge of and understanding of the discipline of evaluation and the political and practical application of evaluations in the management of the public sector.
• gained a basic theoretical and practical knowledge of the most used types of evaluation models and their strengths and weaknesses.
• a basic knowledge of the interaction between implementation processes and evaluation in the public sector.

Skills

After participating in the course, students should be able to:

• analyze the consequences of different evaluations, and the forms of knowledge produced, for policy and organization in the public sector.
• independently apply evaluation theories, concepts and models in relation to specific issues and decision-making situations
• critically reflect on the use of different forms of evaluation and translate this into strategic practical action

Competences

To be able to conduct qualified evaluations of the public sector's practice and policies on a sound methodological basis.

Exam

Exams