The impact of practice on pedagogy: Reflections of novice evaluation teachers

Abstract

In this practice note two novice evaluation teachers share their findings from research conducted with students who were enrolled in a theory and practicum course in evaluation. The study focused on understanding how and in what ways students navigate between the world of theory and the world of practice. The findings from this study subsequently led to a re-envisioning of the course offerings to provide a more nuanced transition between two dichotomized conceptualizations of evaluation (theory and practice), revised syllabi, and the addition of a third course. The implications of this research (and subsequent pedagogical revisions) raise important issues for evaluation teachers and practitioners, as we continue to debate the relationship between theory and practice in evaluation.