Learning About Evaluation Through Dialogue: Lessons From an Informal Discussion Group

Abstract

Dialogue and discussion are fundamental to advancing the field of evaluation. Small informal discussion groups that focus on particular issues serve to promote productive dialogue about evaluation. This paper describes the dialogue of such a group. Because it is interactive, dynamic, and applied, we assert that the group is a personification of the nature of evaluation knowledge. We further argue that this group, and the way that it has been formulated, is particularly suitable for learning about evaluation, for socializing new people into the field, and for promoting continuing education.