Some evaluation standards Joint Evaluation Workshop Casablanca 7

Some evaluation standards Joint Evaluation Workshop Casablanca, 7 th – 10 th November 2011 www. ecbproject. org

Objectivity & independence Separation of the evaluator from the person, group or subject that is under discussion For example: • evaluator must keep their opinions to themselves, • be neutral about the subject • seek to understand what the person is saying. The evaluator is not there to defend or explain what was done, or explain the rationale for the action or its meaning. Evaluators are impartial.

Reliability The ability to repeat the process so that the results from similar types of interviewees can be compared and also synthesized; and also between different type of stakeholders.

Triangulation of • data sources (where the data are coming from) • methods (how information are collected) • investigators (who collected the information) allows to cross-check results.

Ethics in practice Commitment to ensuring no harm to participants (confidentiality, informed consent, voluntary participation). This includes: • Respecting people • asking their permission to interview, take notes, take pictures. • Acknowledging that they are doing you a service by providing feedback.

Quality control An evaluation process is agreed to meet the above standards and managed accordingly. This includes the training and supervision of those expected to collect data and analyze the findings. Quality controls adhere to the principle of independence of the evaluator.