Commitment to Standards of Practice

My evaluation plan adheres to the Standards of Program Evaluation Practice as outlined by the OECD international standards (Sanders, 1982).  I have read and understood the document and have made every effort to comply.

Utility

Stakeholders/primary intended users have been identified, including staff, students, and parents at the school being evaluated.  Although I am not a certified evaluator, I am evaluating with credibility given the parameters of this course.  I have also tried to collect information pertinent to the use of e-portfolios on Freshgrade using a broad base of key questions to answer, with sensitivity to the needs and interests of those involved.  Clear explanation of my involvement as both evaluator and user has been identified, and I have tried to carefully articulate my program theory and logic model to ensure that essential information is understood.  Data collection and analysis will be completed in a timely fashion, and reporting will be concise with post-report help for intended users.

Feasibility

Efforts to collect data with the least amount of disruption has been taken into account when selecting methods.  The cost should be minimal, and efforts to evaluate for the sake of new knowledge and greater student learning is the intention.  Sensitivity to biases and resistance to change in practice must be taken account when conducting the evaluation.

Propriety

Ethical guidelines are important to ensure that all participants are treated with dignity, value, and respect.  Data must be kept anonymous (ie. Interviews and surveys), and if quotes from participants are used in data analysis, permission must be given.  Human dignity and rights of children must be honoured, particular in this evaluation involving young people (Graham, et al, 2013). 

Results of the evaluation must also be viewed from a wide lens including both strengths and weaknesses of the program in order for participants to make improvements.  If true reflection and growth is desired, transparency of results must be available. 

Accuracy

By including the focus of the evaluation, the outcome goals, demographics, staff, resources, and potential unintended results at the beginning of this study, documentation is in place and the context can be adequately examined.  The purposes and procedures are also identified in the program theory and logic model so that the success of the program can be clearly assessed.  I have also made every effort to ensure valid and reliable data. 

Although I have not yet begun the process of collecting data, I hope to carefully analyze both qualitative and quantitative data, review the findings, and report justified conclusions that have considered multiple viewpoints, limiting biases.  Both formative and summative findings will be explored in this study (process and outcome).