Introducing Reflexivity to Evaluation Practice

An In-Depth Case Study

Datos Bibliográficos

ID12470905
AutoresJenna Van Draanen (0000-0003-0486-6525, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA, autor de correspondencia)
Año2016
Volumen38
Número3
Páginas360-375
Fecha de publicación2016-09-16
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaAmerican Journal of Evaluation (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1098-2140 • E-ISSN: 1557-0878
EditorialSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/1098214016668401
OpenAlexW2520519417
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas13
Referencias citadas17

There is currently a paucity of literature in the field of evaluation regarding the practice of reflection and reflexivity and a lack of available tools to guide this practice—yet using a reflexive model can enhance evaluation practice. This paper focuses on the methods and results of a reflexive inquiry that was conducted during a participatory evaluation of a project targeting homelessness and mental health issues. I employed an action plan composed of a conceptual model, critical questions, and intended activities. The field notes made throughout the reflexive inquiry were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results clustered in categories of power and privilege, evaluation politics, the applicability of the action plan, and outcomes. In this case study, reflexivity increased my competence as an evaluation professional: The action plan helped maintain awareness of how my personal actions, thoughts, and personal values relate to broader evaluation values—and to identify incongruence. The results of the study uncovered hidden elements and heightened awareness of subtle dynamics requiring attention within the evaluation and created opportunities to challenge the influence of personal biases on the evaluation proceedings. This reflexive model allowed me to be a more responsive evaluator and can improve practice and professional development for other evaluators

Action (physics · Action plan · Action research · Competence (human resources · Engineering ethics · Pedagogy · Qualitative research · Reflexivity · Social science · Sociology · Thematic analysis · Evaluation and Performance Assessment · Homelessness and Social Issues · Psychology · Social Psychology · Social Work Education and Practice