Program Evaluation Theory and Practice: A Comprehensive Guide

Covering both the theory and practice of evaluation in one engaging volume, this leading text is now in a revised third edition. It features additional evaluation approaches, such as the Indigenous paradigm; new examples, ranging from small to large and multi-site evaluations; and more. Instructors praise the diverse evaluations, many with reflective commentary from evaluators, and rich pedagogical features. The text describes the major theoretical paradigms in evaluation and the ways they inform methodological choices. Readers learn effective strategies for clarifying their own theoretical assumptions; working with stakeholders; developing questions; using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs; choosing data collection and sampling strategies; analyzing data; and communicating and utilizing findings. The book includes guidance for planning an evaluation of a specific project or program. Extensive recommended online resources and tools are provided at the companion website.

New to This Edition

• Restructured section on philosophical frameworks, with a new chapter on the Indigenous paradigm and expanded coverage of disability, feminist, and LGBTQ+ theories.
• Additional sample studies, including multi-site and systems- and complexity-informed evaluations. 
• Expanded coverage of logic models, cost–benefit evaluations, and mixed methods designs.
• New and updated coverage of data collection technologies, qualitative coding methods, Sustainable Development Goals, and uses and pitfalls of artificial intelligence.

Pedagogical Features

• Reflection questions that prepare students to read each chapter.
• "Extending Your Thinking" questions and learning activities.
• New within-chapter maps to aid in navigating chapter sections.
• Boxes offering sample evaluations and closer looks at key concepts. 
• Helpful checklists and tables, bolded key terms, and an end-of-book Glossary. 
• Companion website with links to recommended online resources and tools. 

Donna M. Mertens, PhD, is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Educational Foundations and Research at Gallaudet University. She continues to pursue an active professional life, consulting about evaluations across the globe and, of course, writing about methodological issues and social justice. A past president of the American Evaluation Association (AEA), Dr. Mertens has received AEA’s highest honors for service to the organization and the field, as well as for her contributions to evaluation theory. In 2025, she received the inaugural TEI Social Betterment Award from The Evaluators’ Institute. She is the author of several books and is widely published in major professional journals.

Jori N. Hall, PhD, is President's Distinguished Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is an award-winning author and multidisciplinary researcher. Dr. Hall has conducted evaluations in various fields with historically minoritized communities, and has taught graduate-level courses on culturally responsive evaluation, evaluation theory, and mixed methods. Guided by her extensive training and collaborative experiences, she brings a values-engaged, culture-oriented lens that contributes to responsive, rigorous, and innovative evaluation theory and practice.

Amy T. Wilson, PhD, is former Director of Mill Neck International at the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, where she led a team of deaf education specialists sharing their expertise, knowledge, and technical skills with parents, educators, and professionals in economically poor countries. Previously, she was Program Director of the International Development Programs at Gallaudet University. For 20 years, Dr. Wilson engaged in international program development, conducting evaluations in various venues around the world, teaching graduate students, and training people from underserved communities.