Theory building from qualitative evaluation

Abstract

This article argues that not only is theory building from qualitative evaluation possible, but ought to be considered as a desirable product and utilisation of evaluators’ work. Based on three case studies, the authors show how theory building can work, and why it can be important and useful. Theory building is seldom considered an impact-producing product from evaluation. Theory in evaluation is typically limited to ‘evaluation theory’ as a way of explaining why and how different approaches to evaluation work. Theory is also used to inform programme design and ‘theory of change’. The literature seldom suggests that evaluations can be used to build theory in social sciences. The argument presented in this article builds on literature of ‘theories of evaluation use’ to suggest that theorising is a form of knowledge utilisation arising from well-constructed, open-ended evaluation questions, and conceptual use of findings and recommendations.

Mapping benefits and value from evaluations

“…I also agree with the authors that 'The framework's inclination towards monetised impacts risked oversimplifying and undervaluing program impact, especially when numerous benefits couldn't be quantified or monetised ' (p. 119). Beyond the immediate benefits, I would suggest that the work undertaken by the authors should support theory-building (see work I have done on this topic with colleagues: Guenther et al, 2023), and contribute to more generalised application outside the Yarrabah context, in which the evaluation was conducted.…”