Values in evaluation - The use of rubrics.

Area of Science:

• Evaluation methodology
• Applied social sciences

Background:

• Rubrics are essential tools for evaluators to determine the quality and success of evaluands (programs, projects, policies).
• Existing literature on rubric development is fragmented, primarily concentrated in educational contexts focusing on teaching and learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize key literature on rubric development to identify best practices for evaluators.
• To provide practical guidance for evaluators using rubrics to make value judgments on evaluands.
• To consolidate scattered information for wider accessibility in evaluation projects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on rubrics.
• Drawing upon practical experience in rubric development for diverse evaluation projects.
• Consultation with various stakeholders involved in evaluation.

Main Results:

• Identification of core principles and best practices in rubric development.
• Consolidation of scattered literature into a coherent framework for evaluators.
• Development of practical guidance applicable across different evaluation contexts.

Conclusions:

• Effective rubric development requires synthesizing existing literature and practical experience.
• This synthesized guidance aims to enhance the rigor and utility of evaluations.
• The article serves as a valuable resource for evaluators seeking to improve quality assessments using rubrics.