Curriculum research and evaluation
Mr L C Ingvarson and Associate Professor J R Northfield
First semester * Clayton
This subject will trace the major ideas and approaches that have developed over recent years in the field of curriculum research and evaluation. Students will be able to examine in detail particular evaluation studies and develop skills in designing evaluation in fields related to their own interests. In particular, the course will aim to strengthen the critical judgement of students in the following areas: the range of theoretical and methodological perspectives in the field of evaluation; techniques in evaluation; evaluation and policy-making; and notions of accountability, school evaluation and teacher evaluation. The subject does not aim to develop expertise in educational measurement or statistical analysis nor should such expertise be considered a prerequisite. Students with backgrounds other than teaching (eg nursing) should find the subject deals with broader issues of program evaluation and ideas should apply to other settings.
Assessment
Written (6000 words): 60% * Seminar participation: 40%
Recommended texts
House E R Professional evaluation: Social impact and political consequences Sage, 1993
McLaughlin M W and Phillips D C (eds) Evaluation and education: A quarter century Chicago UP, 1991
Patton M Q Qualitative evaluation and research methods Sage, 1990
Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation The program evaluation standards 2nd edn, Sage, 1994