RafolsStirling_OpeningUp20200901-Preprint.pdf (2.55 MB)
Designing indicators for opening up evaluation: insights from research assessment
The use of indicators is generally associated with a reduction of perspectival diversity in evaluation that often facilitates making decisions along dominant framings – effectively closing down debate. In this chapter we will argue that while this is indeed often the case, indicators can also be used to help support more plural evaluation and foster more productively critical debate. In order to achieve this shift, it is necessary equally to change understandings, forms and uses of indicators in decision making. These shifts involve, first, broadening out the range of ‘inputs’ taken into account; and second, opening up the ‘outputs’, in the sense of developing methodologies for indicator-based analyses to help in considering plural perspectives. In practice, this means a move towards more situated and participatory use of quantitative evidence in evaluation, a shift from universal indicators to contextualized indicating.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Publisher
Edward ElgarExternal DOI
Page range
165-193Pages
256.0Book title
A research agenda for evaluationPlace of publication
Cheltenham, UKISBN
9781839101076Series
Political Science and Public Policy 2021Department affiliated with
- SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications
Notes
This is a draft chapter/article. The final version is available in A research agenda for evaluation edited by [Peter Dahler-Larsen, published in 2021, Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd https://doi.org/10.4337/9781839101083 The material cannot be used for any other purpose without further permission of the publisher, and is for private use only.Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Editors
Peter Dahler-LarsenLegacy Posted Date
2021-12-14First Open Access (FOA) Date
2021-12-14First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2021-12-14Usage metrics
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