Appreciative Evaluation: A Paradigm Shift in International Extension Education
- Kevan Lamm
- Feb 14, 2024
- 2 min read
Evaluation, once viewed as a mere assessment tool, has evolved into a vital process driving program success. However, traditional evaluation approaches often focus on identifying weaknesses, overlooking the celebration of strengths. In international extension education, where innovation and adaptation are paramount, an appreciative approach to evaluation can revolutionize program effectiveness and impact.
New Approaches to Evaluation
Recognition of the value of innovative approaches in evaluation has grown.
Funders and extension professionals now explore diverse evaluation methods, challenging the conventional notion of evaluation as an external process.
The shift towards appreciative inquiry emphasizes recognizing program strengths and successes, rather than solely pinpointing areas for improvement.
Shifting Focus: Appreciating Success
Research suggests that traditional problem-solving approaches in evaluation may not always yield optimal outcomes.
Appreciative inquiry directs attention towards understanding and enhancing program effectiveness by appreciating achievements and identifying strengths.
By shifting the focus to what works well, evaluators can offer recommendations that leverage existing successes, driving positive change.
Application to International Extension Education
In the realm of international extension education, the principles of appreciative evaluation hold significant promise.
With its emphasis on stakeholder involvement and participatory processes, appreciative inquiry aligns with the collaborative ethos of extension work.
By highlighting program strengths and fostering intrinsic motivation, appreciative evaluation can empower volunteers and drive program success.
Unveiling Unintended Outcomes
One of the key advantages of appreciative evaluation is its ability to uncover unintended outcomes and impacts.
In contexts where resources are limited, this approach offers a flexible framework for identifying opportunities for additional investment and course correction.
By embracing the dynamic nature of programmatic outcomes, appreciative evaluation fosters adaptability and innovation.
In the pursuit of program excellence, international extension educators must embrace innovative evaluation approaches like appreciative inquiry. By celebrating successes, engaging stakeholders, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, appreciative evaluation has the potential to elevate the impact of extension programs worldwide. Please share your thoughts using the comments below.
Lamm, A. J., & Lamm, K. W. (2018). Considering an appreciative approach to international extension evaluation. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 25(4), 74-82. https://newprairiepress.org/jiaee/vol25/iss4/6/
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