ABSTRACT
In this chapter some essential aspects of general evaluation methodology will be discussed. The chapter provides an at a glance view on aspects that will be treated in more detail in subsequent chapters. In this way the core “logic” of systematic evaluation is introduced. In addition, important distinctions in evaluation theory will be discussed concerning ideal-type stages in evaluation projects, methodological implications of accountability and improvement perspectives, and formative and summative roles of evaluation. The section on “rationality assumptions” links this chapter to the next one on relevant aspects of the organizational and political context of evaluations.
