ABSTRACT
Now that we have conceptually analyzed the distinction between problem and need and have examined the thinking processes related to the nature of knowledge, planning, conducting, and reporting of need, let us turn our attention to the action processes for conducting a needs assessment. Selection of evaluation design, as we have discussed, is based on purpose, scope, and current knowledge related to the problem or domain of professional concern. As we discussed in the previous chapter, if existing and sound evidence does not provide the empirical foundation on which to develop a clear and comprehensive statement of need, professionals need to engage in the action process of data collection and analysis. At the other end of the spectrum, if sufficient theory and practice literature are available and relevant to the problem statement, then the professionals might choose action strategies that are founded on the viability of previously supported efforts and measurement. Each condition provides the rationale for methodological selection. Situations that fall in between the two extremes direct our attention to needs assessment action processes that might make use of multiple research traditions. These are based on abductive logic structures, such as those that include both a naturalistic and experimentaltype component.
